- Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, backed Tinubu’s tax reform bills, emphasising benefits for the poor and small businesses
- However, state governors, including Borno's Babagana Zulum, have opposes the bills
- Agbese added that robust discussions and backing for the reforms would continue to grow
The Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has emphasised that President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills will ease the financial burden on Nigeria’s poor and small businesses once enacted into law.
The four executive bills, which have sparked widespread debate, have led to tensions between the 36 state governors and the Federal Government. The governors have expressed concerns and called for the withdrawal of the bills in order to allow for more consultation. Despite this, some state leaders are beginning to reconsider their stance.
Borno State governor, Prof Babagana Zulum, remains a staunch critic of the proposals, urging his northern counterparts to reject the bills. He argues that their implementation could cause severe damage to the region’s economy.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Saturday, November 30, Agbese rallied support for the bills, calling on Nigerians to unite behind the proposed reforms. He underscored that the interests of the nation should always outweigh individual or sectional concerns.
“We hope to debate these bills on Tuesday and anticipate a robust discussion that will ultimately lead to their passage,” Agbese said.
“Most of our colleagues have read the bills, and as a result, many are now shifting their positions. Those who were initially opposed are now advocating for their speedy consideration and passage.”
He added that the growing support for the bills reflects the wider public interest. “When we meet next week, we expect even more supporters to join us. But it is important to note that this is not just about lawmakers; it’s about Nigerians, from the top company executive to the farmer in a rural village. Public policy affects everyone, and if these bills become law, they will invigorate the economy and pave the way for the development of critical infrastructure.”
Agbese also praised President Tinubu for leading the charge on tax reform, stating that the country is moving towards a system of progressive taxation.
“What this means is that if implemented, we will have a new tax regime that lifts the burden from poor Nigerians and small businesses. This is a shift in thinking that will ultimately benefit the country,” he concluded.
Senate approves Tinubu’s $2.2 billion loan request to fund 2024 budget deficit
Meanwhile, TheRadar reported that the Senate approved President Bola Tinubu’s loan request of $2.2 billion to partially finance the N9.7 trillion budget deficits for the 2024 fiscal year.
The approval followed the presentation of a report by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts, Aliyu Wamakko, during plenary on Thursday, November 21
