We Will Prioritise Tax Reform Bills In 2025 – Speaker Abbas

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has said the 2025 Appropriation and the Tax Reforms Bills before the National Assembly were part of the priorities of the Green Chamber in 2025.

He also noted that the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution would address some structural, systemic, and foundational issues in the polity.

In his welcome address at the plenary on Tuesday as the National Assembly resumed from the Christmas and New Year break, Abbas emphasised the 10th House‘s commitment to legislative interventions that address the country‘s socio-economic and political problems.

In the address delivered on his behalf by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, the speaker said: “Our legislative agenda for 2025 prioritises the passage of the Appropriation Bill and the Tax Reform Bills, both of which are pivotal to economic recovery and fiscal stability.

“These reforms are essential for broadening the tax base, improving compliance, and reducing dependency on external borrowing. The House will ensure that these reforms are equitable and considerate of the needs of all Nigerians, particularly the most vulnerable.”

Speaker Abbas said that as the House engages with the federal government‘s 2025 budget and other legislative priorities, “we must remain meticulous in our scrutiny, ensuring that every proposal aligns with national objectives and delivers tangible benefits to the citizenry.”

He noted that the planned Citizens’ Town Hall on the budget would further reinforce transparency and inclusivity in our decision-making processes.

The speaker also noted that the Constitutional Review Committee, under the leadership of the Deputy Speaker, continues to make commendable progress.

“The extensive consultations and rigorous review of over 350 memoranda demonstrate the depth of public engagement in shaping our nation’s foundational document,” he said.

Abbas said it was anticipated that the outcomes of the process “will address longstanding governance challenges and promote inclusivity, equity, and accountability.”

He said: “Besides constitutional amendments, the House is committed to advancing legislative frameworks that address critical national issues, including gender equality, electoral reform, and energy infrastructure. As custodians of the legislative process, we must approach these tasks with resolve and an acute awareness of their implications for Nigeria’s development trajectory.

“One of the key mandates of the legislature is to promote accountability. Nigerians look to us for transparent, responsive, and results-oriented leadership. The success of initiatives such as the Open Parliament and the ‘State of the House’ live chats underscores the value of direct engagement with the public. These platforms will remain integral to our efforts to foster trust and demonstrate our commitment to the ideals of representative democracy.”

While stressing that collaboration with the Executive arm of the government is equally crucial, with the National Assembly upholding its institutional independence, the lawmakers must continue to engage constructively with other branches of government to achieve our shared aim of national progress.

“This partnership, built on mutual respect and a common vision, is essential for addressing the complex challenges our nation confronts,” he stated.

Speaker Abbas urged members of the House to “renew our commitment to the principles of service, equity, and progress,” noting that “Nigerians have legitimate expectations, and rightly so.”

He added: “Our citizens aspire to a safer, more prosperous nation, where opportunities flourish, and governance reflects the highest standards of integrity and accountability.

“We should embrace these expectations not as burdens but as the driving force behind our collective mission. We can transform challenges into opportunities and aspirations into realities by working with purpose, unity, and resolve.”

In addition, as Nigeria observes Armed Forces Remembrance Day tomorrow, Speaker Abbas urged the citizenry to honour the sacrifices of fallen heroes and our service members‘ unwavering commitment.

He stated that the House would continue championing their welfare and ensuring their contributions to our nation are met with the recognition and support they deserve.

The Speaker stated: “Honourable colleagues, 2025 demands our best efforts and our unwavering focus on the mandate entrusted to us by the people. Let us work together to ensure that this year stands as a testament to the transformative power of effective governance.”