SGF George Akume affirms northern support for Nigeria’s Tax Reform Bills, emphasising benefits for states and the poor amidst Senate debates.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has dismissed allegations that northerners oppose the proposed Tax Reform Bills, asserting widespread regional support.
During an appearance on TVC News on Sunday, Akume highlighted that consultations with senior citizens, religious leaders, and other stakeholders from the North revealed strong backing for the reforms.
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The bills include the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, 2024, and the Nigeria Tax Bill, 2024.
“People claim the bills target a specific region, but as a northerner myself, I fully support them,” Akume declared.
“I’ve spoken to prominent leaders from the North, including religious figures and senior citizens, and they’re not opposed to these bills. They understand these are nationalistic reforms.”
Akume emphasised that the reforms aim to alleviate poverty and stimulate growth. He explained that individuals earning less than ₦800,000 annually would be exempt from personal income tax, while small businesses with revenue below ₦550 million would avoid company taxes.
Additionally, he noted that hospitals, educational institutions, and similar entities would also be tax-exempt. “This demonstrates the pro-poor and developmental focus of these bills,” he said.
He also highlighted the restructuring of Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue distribution. Under the new arrangement, states will receive 55%, local governments 35%, and the Federal Government just 10%. Akume underscored that northern states, which have more local governments, stand to benefit significantly.
While the SGF defended the reforms, northern senators have taken a more cautious approach. Members of the Northern Caucus are withholding a definitive position pending discussions with the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN.
Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South), leading the Senate’s Special Committee, aims to address contentious areas in the bills through dialogue. However, the committee’s initial meeting was delayed due to the AGF’s unavailability.
Not all northern leaders are convinced. Senator Ali Ndume (APC, Borno South) reiterated his opposition, calling for the bills’ withdrawal to allow broader consultation.
“While tax reforms are essential, the timing is wrong,” Ndume argued. “The focus should be on cutting recurrent expenditures and addressing constitutional conflicts within the bills.”
He further criticised the introduction of new taxes during economic hardship, warning of potential public discontent.
Amid the controversy, President Bola Tinubu has instructed the Federal Ministry of Justice to collaborate with lawmakers to refine the bills.
Akume urged protesters to engage constructively, saying, “Submit your views during the National Assembly’s public hearings. Let’s give the bills a chance.”
As the debate unfolds, the Tax Reform Bills remain a focal point of Nigeria’s economic and political discourse, with implications for national unity, fiscal policy, and grassroots development.
