The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called for a comprehensive reform of Nigeria’s tax administration system, highlighting its flaws in design, implementation, and the attitudes of taxpayers. Speaking at the National Discourse on Tax Reform Bills in Kaduna, organized by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Idris emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue in democracy to address concerns surrounding the tax reform bills.
He reassured Nigerians of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to participatory democracy, stating that the administration would not compromise democratic principles. Idris also stressed the crucial role of taxation as a source of government revenue to fund essential social services.
Acknowledging the ongoing review of tax laws as part of broader economic reforms, the minister encouraged public engagement, assuring stakeholders that their concerns would be addressed. He praised the efforts of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reform for fostering transparency and inclusivity in the process.
Idris highlighted that the fiscal reform agenda aims to empower state and local governments, ensuring true federalism and economic growth. He commended the NIPR for initiating dialogue on the role of public relations in shaping the national economic renaissance through tax reforms.
The event attracted key stakeholders from various sectors, including civil society, clergy, and former lawmakers, who voiced their support for the tax reform bills. The discourse underscored the importance of collaboration and citizen involvement in shaping a sustainable and equitable tax system for Nigeria’s future.
