Tax Reform: FG Intensifies Community Engagement To Drive Acceptance

The federal government has unveiled plans to embark on a nationwide community engagement campaign to foster understanding and acceptance of the tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly.

Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu for community engagement in the Northwest Abdullahi Yakasai highlighted the importance of using feedback mechanisms to address public concerns and misconceptions.

“We have established hotlines and online portals to provide clarity and address fears about the bill. We are committed to ensuring Nigerians understand its significance,” Tanko assured.

During a media roundtable discussion in Abuja yesterday, Yakasai underscored the federal government’s intensified efforts to engage communities, underlining its determination to build public trust and drive the successful implementation of the tax reforms.

Meanwhile, Tayo Koleosho, chief of staff to the executive chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, explained that the initiative seeks to address public scepticism surrounding taxation by bridging the communication gap between the government and the public.

He emphasised the importance of grassroots engagement to ensure citizens across the country comprehend the implications and benefits of the reforms for Nigeria’s development.

He said, “This is one of the many steps we are trying to take. We are trying to meet Nigerians through different channels that they will be able to understand because we think the major gap in our ability to be compliant or to embrace any law, irrespective of the law, especially when you talk about taxes, is across the world, people generally are suspicious of taxation, and it is very difficult for them to embrace it.

“So, what we are saying is that when Nigerians understand this and all the content and everything it is about, then they can trust it and become advocates for it.

“And that is on one side. On the other hand, we are in a current situation in our country where we need more revenue in general, and taxation helps citizens actually have a sense of right to question how their money is being spent.”

Olufemi Olarinde, head of the Fiscal and Tax Reforms Implementation Division at FIRS, highlighted that the tax reform bill resulted from extensive consultations with stakeholders nationwide.

He noted that the Tax Reform Committee held roundtables across the country to ensure equity and fairness in the proposed reforms.

“This bill is progressive and considers all parts of the country equitably. While scepticism remains, we urge Nigerians to trust the process and support these reforms for the collective good,” Olarinde said.

Responding to concerns from the northern region, where resistance to the bill has been reported, Olarinde explained that the reforms prioritise economic stimulation by exempting low-income earners earning below N300,000 annually.

“The aim is to grow the tax net by allowing small businesses and individuals to thrive, which will eventually increase revenue for states. Additionally, digitising tax administration will improve compliance and efficiency,” he noted.

Also, the senior special assistant to President Bola Tinubu for Community Engagement in Southwest Moremi Ojudu outlined the government’s strategic communication framework for the campaign.

“We are creating a six-month plan to take the advocacy for the Tax Reform Bill to communities. This involves engaging trade unions, associations, and grassroots leaders to communicate in local languages and ensure inclusivity,” she said.