JUST IN: Senate Sets Up Committee to Review Tax Reform Bills

The Nigerian Senate has established a special committee to address contentious aspects of the proposed tax reform bills. The committee, chaired by Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South), is tasked with resolving grey areas in the legislation and presenting its findings to the full Senate before a public hearing is held.

Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin (APC, Kano North) made the announcement during Wednesday’s plenary session, which he presided over. He emphasized that the committee would engage with the Attorney General of the Federation, the executive branch, and other critical stakeholders to ensure thorough consultation.

The tax reform bills, introduced to the National Assembly on October 3, 2024, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aim to strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal institutions in alignment with the government’s broader development agenda. The bills were presented through a formal letter read separately by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajuddeen Abbas during their respective plenaries.

Despite the government’s intentions, the bills have sparked significant opposition from various quarters, including governors, traditional leaders, civil society organizations, and some federal lawmakers. Critics have raised concerns about the potential implications of the reforms.

Other members of the committee include Senators Titus Zam (APC, Benue North West), Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North), Sani Musa (APC, Niger East), and Abdullahi Yahaya (Kebbi North), among others. The committee’s work is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the proposed reforms.