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Shehu Sani, a former senator representing Kaduna Central, has clarified that President Bola Tinubu's Tax Reform Bill, recently presented to the National Assembly, does not discriminate against the North.
Addressing concerns over the bill's potential impact, Sani urged both Northern leaders and citizens to “move beyond sentiments and look at the benefits” of the proposed legislation.
In a statement, Sani expressed his belief that Tinubu’s bill is “economically beneficial and fair to all parts” of Nigeria.
He described it as a comprehensive effort to “harmonise and simplify tax administration,” while streamlining enforcement to enhance revenue generation.
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“The Tax Reform Bill is not inimical to the North or any part of this country. People should keep aside sentiments and read the Bill carefully. It’s a comprehensive and bold move to harmonise and simplify tax administration… combat corruption in the so-called tax waivers granted to business cabals,” he stated.
Sani addressed Northern governors directly, urging them to “rescind their decision to reject the Bill and take time to read it.”
He emphasised that no region will be shortchanged, nor will there be job losses or increased taxes. Instead, Sani assured that the reforms would safeguard national and state revenues.
He concluded by calling on the National Assembly to treat the bill with urgency, underscoring its importance to Nigeria’s economic future.
Arewa group rallies support for Tinubu's tax reforms
Meanwhile, the Coalition of Arewa Groups, comprising 300 organisations from 19 northern states, has declared its support for President Bola Tinubu's tax reform bill, urging the National Assembly to expedite its passage.
The Coalition praised President Tinubu's vision, emphasising the bill's potential to restructure Nigeria's tax framework and drive sustainable economic growth.
“Our endorsement is premised on the understanding that the tax bills are designed to consolidate taxation frameworks, promote economic growth, and ensure sustainability,” said Alhaji Usman Abubakar and Obadiah Amos, co-signatories of the group's statement.
The group also commended Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Chairman Zacch Adedeji for enhancing public understanding of the bill through media engagements, stating, “We pass a vote of confidence in the FIRS Chairman and express our full support for President Tinubu’s tax bills.”
Reaffirming its stance, the Coalition called on lawmakers to ensure the bill’s timely implementation, noting that transparency in pricing and publishing costs could further strengthen Nigeria's tax system.