The Nigerian government has strongly defended its controversial tax reform bills, aiming to set the record straight in response to claims that the reforms would unfairly benefit Lagos and Rivers states. Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, took to the public stage to address the confusion and misinformation surrounding the proposed reforms.

Over the past few weeks, various political figures and commentators have made claims suggesting that the tax reforms would make Lagos and Rivers significantly wealthier than other states in Nigeria. This has caused a stir among the public, with many fearing that the reforms might lead to an uneven economic landscape. Onanuga, however, vehemently denied these claims, clarifying that the bills were not designed to benefit specific states but to improve the overall economic environment for the entire country.

Onanuga emphasized that the reforms aim to address the complex and burdensome tax system currently in place. He noted that multiple taxes are making Nigeria uncompetitive and difficult for businesses to thrive in, which in turn discourages investment and hampers economic growth.

One of the key issues Onanuga raised was the challenge of multiple taxes that businesses are facing across Nigeria. According to the presidential spokesperson, the current system makes it hard for businesses to operate smoothly and discourages investment in the country. This situation, he explained, has led to many businesses either struggling to grow or ceasing operations altogether.

The new tax reform bills, Onanuga said, are designed to simplify this system. By streamlining the tax structure, the government hopes to create a more competitive business environment, attract investment, and encourage growth in various sectors of the economy. The reforms are also aimed at ensuring that businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, are not overwhelmed by excessive tax burdens.

Onanuga also reassured the public that the tax reform bills would not favor Lagos or Rivers at the expense of other regions. He stressed that the goal of the reforms is to uplift the lives of all Nigerians, particularly those in disadvantaged regions who are struggling to make ends meet.

He expressed regret that some political actors had tried to manipulate the situation, spreading misleading information in an effort to divide Nigerians. Instead of focusing on these divisive narratives, Onanuga urged the public to focus on the real benefits of the tax reform, which include improving the quality of life for Nigerians and enhancing the country’s competitiveness in the global market.

The main objective behind the tax reform bills is to create a stronger, more stable Nigerian economy that benefits all citizens. By reducing the number of taxes and making the system more transparent, the government aims to foster an environment that promotes job creation, investment, and economic growth. The reforms also aim to ensure that the tax system is more fair and accessible to all Nigerians, regardless of their location.

“Contrary to the lies being peddled, the bills do not suggest that NASENI, TETFUND, and NITDA will cease to exist in 2029 after the passage of the bills.

“Government agencies, such as NASENI, TETFUND, and NITDA, are funded through budgetary provisions with company income tax and other taxes paid by the same businesses that are being overburdened with the special taxes.

“One reason President Bola Tinubu embarked on the Tax and Fiscal Policy Reforms is the need to streamline tax administration in Nigeria and make the operating environment conducive for businesses.

“For decades, businesses, investors, and private sector players in Nigeria have complained of being overburdened by a myriad of taxes and levies, including those earmarked to fund various government agencies and initiatives,” the presidential media aide stated.

Onanuga concluded by encouraging the public to ignore misinformation and focus on the positive impact these reforms will have on the country. He assured that the government is committed to improving Nigeria’s economic situation for the benefit of all its citizens.