Philip Agbese, the Deputy Spokesman for the House of Representatives, confirmed that the green chamber is committed to passing the tax reform bills proposed by President Bola Tinubu, with only minor adjustments.
In an interview with reporters on Monday in Abuja, Agbese emphasized that lawmakers view the four executive bills as essential for stimulating economic growth in Nigeria. President Tinubu has urged the National Assembly to pass these bills, which have generated widespread debate across the country.
The proposed legislation includes the Nigeria Tax Bill, the Tax Administration Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill. Additionally, Tinubu seeks to repeal the current law establishing the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and replace it with the Nigeria Revenue Service.
On October 28, the Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF) voiced concerns over the bills, claiming they would adversely affect the region’s interests. The governors called for a more balanced implementation of national policies to avoid marginalizing any geopolitical zone.
In response, the presidency assured the northern governors on October 31 that the new tax laws would not introduce new taxes. Agbese also mentioned that some governors have threatened to deny lawmakers re-election tickets if they continue supporting the bills. However, he stressed that representatives are determined to back measures that will help revive the country’s economy.
“The new generation of lawmakers in the House is intellectual, forward-thinking, and committed to Nigeria’s success,” Agbese stated. “We are united across party lines to ensure progress. Speaker Tajudeen Abass shares this vision.”
Agbese further explained that while lawmakers are elected by their constituents, not governors, they are prepared to support reforms that benefit those who voted for them. He believes the bills will pass with only minor adjustments, guided by patriotism and intellectual insight.
On November 1, President Tinubu reaffirmed that the tax reform bills would not be withdrawn from the National Assembly, despite suggestions from the National Economic Council (NEC). On November 17, former Kano Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso urged the National Assembly to reject any attempts to disadvantage the north through the proposed reforms.
