The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has assured that the Green Chamber would consider proposals and recommendations received from stakeholders in the final report on the four tax reforms bills.
Mr Abbas noted that the House would ensure it scrutinised the bills in the best interest of Nigerians.
The speaker, represented by the Majority Leader, Julius Ihonvbere, made this known at the House on Wednesday while declaring open a three-day public hearing on the tax reforms bills presented to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu.
They include the Nigeria Tax Bill, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill.
The speaker explained that the bills represent critical proposals from the Executive arm of the government to expand Nigeria’s tax base, improve compliance, and establish sustainable revenue streams for the nation’s development.
He said: “As you are all aware, the tax reform bills have generated widespread debate in the media, public domain and even in private discussions, all reflecting their importance. It should be noted, however, that these debates are healthy and necessary for consolidating our democratic practice and culture.
“Therefore, the purpose of this public hearing is to foster robust discussions and harvest recommendations by providing stakeholders the opportunity to make their inputs.
“Importantly, this public hearing will help us identify areas requiring amendment, clarification, or improvement while also considering the compatibility of these bills with the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and other extant laws.
“We have therefore set aside three days for the public hearing to enable as many stakeholders as possible to air their views and make their recommendations.”
Mr Abbas noted that the bills seek to “diversify our revenue base, promote equity, and foster an enabling environment for investment and innovation.”
He added that the Tinubu administration is “deliberate in the administration’s tax reform programme ostensibly to improve Nigeria’s tax-to-GDP ratio by streamlining and broadening the tax base.”
He stressed: “However, as representatives of the people, I have continued to hold the view that we must approach these reforms thoughtfully, understanding their potential implications for every segment of society. Taxes should be fair, transparent, and justifiable, balancing the need for public revenue with the burdens they impose on individuals and businesses.
“The House will, therefore, scrutinise these bills thoroughly, ensuring they align with the best interests of our constituents and the nation at large. We owe this duty to Nigerians, and as the People’s House, we must always be accountable to the people.”
