President Bola Tinubu says the tax reforms initiated by his administration are here to stay.
Speaking at the presidential media chat on Monday, Tinubu said the tax reforms were initiated to “eliminate colonial-based assumptions” in the country’s tax environment.
The president said the country cannot continue to use old methods in today’s economy.
Tinubu said those calling for more consultations on the tax reform bills will still do so even if he delays the presentation of the proposed legislation.
“Tax reform is here to stay. In today’s economy, we cannot continue to do what we were doing in the past,” he said.
“The essence of tax reform is to eliminate colonial-based assumptions in our tax environment.
“Every tax situation without outcry is not a tax. You can’t satisfy uniformly the largest community of tax evaders. Look at this tax reform; it is pro-poor. The vulnerable are not to pay taxes
“The hallmark of a good leader is the ability to do what you have to do at the time it ought to be done. That is my philosophy.”
Asked if he was ready to make some concessions on the proposed value-added tax (VAT) sharing model, the president said he does not mind cutting edges.
“Tax matters are subject of debates, reviews, and negotiations until you reach a consensus. I don’t mind cutting edges. I will,” the president said.
On October 3, Tinubu asked the national assembly to consider and pass the bills.
The legislations comprise the Nigeria tax bill, Nigeria tax administration bill, Nigeria Revenue Service establishment bill, and the Joint Revenue Board establishment bill.
One of the legislations that proposed a new VAT-sharing formula for the federation has been vehemently rejected, especially by northern stakeholders.
