The National Orientation Agency, on Thursday, sensitised Gombe stakeholders to the advantages of tax reforms.
Speaking at a sensitisation campaign on World AIDS Day, security awareness, discouraging get-rich-quick syndrome, and tax reform bills, the Director-General of NOA, Lanre Issa-Onilu, called for concerted efforts towards healthy, secure, ethical Nigeria.
Issa-Onilu, who was represented by the Director of Planning Research and Statistics, Yusuf Kobi, explained that taxation is essential for funding national development, “but we recognise that it has been a source of concern for many Nigerians due to issues like multiple taxation and its impact on low-income earners. To address these challenges, the government is implementing reforms to make the system fairer and less burdensome for citizens,” he said.
While giving a breakdown of the tax reform bills, Issa-Onilu disclosed that there are four bills that seek to bring everything about taxation and administration of tax in Nigeria under four different pieces of legislation.
“For instance, Nigeria’s Tax Bill is where all major taxes imposed on individuals and companies are clearly stated as well as the rates. This bill is just like a compendium of taxes charged in Nigeria.
“The Nigeria Tax Bill basically amalgamated all the existing laws in which provisions for taxation were made. When passed, this bill will lead to the repeal of 11 laws that contain provisions on the imposition and collection of taxes.
“The government is working to stop different levels of authority from taxing people for the same thing.
“Those earning very little will pay little or no taxes, helping them manage their finances better.
“New digital systems are being introduced to make tax payments easier, faster, and more accountable.
“These reforms are designed to ease the burden on hardworking Nigerians while ensuring everyone contributes fairly. By supporting this effort, we can create a tax system that works for all and funds the development projects that will improve our nation,” he added.
Issa-Onilu further warned against get-rich-quick syndrome, saying, “The government recognises that the erosion of our age-long values and economic hardship often drives individuals towards unethical practices. Citizens must reject shortcuts to wealth and embrace integrity, hard work, and the opportunities provided by government initiatives to make life better for citizens. In this yuletide season, the tendency to resort to criminal ways to acquire ill-gotten wealth so as to impress others is heightened.”
On security awareness, the NOA maintained that the protection of lives and property remains a priority for the government.
Speaking earlier, Gombe State NOA Director, Adaline Waye-Patari, urged for collaborative efforts towards mitigating myriads of the country’s challenges, stressing that the success of the campaign depends on stakeholders.
She added, “Creating awareness about fair and transparent taxation is a tool for national development.”
