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From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
The federal government is set to commence a nationwide community engagement campaign to drive understanding and acceptance of the tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly.
Tayo Koleosho, Chief of Staff to the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) made the disclosure during a round table discussion in Abuja on Tuesday.
Koleosho explained that the initiative aims to address public skepticism surrounding taxation by bridging the gap between the government and the public on such matters.
He stressed the importance of grassroots engagement to ensure that citizens from all parts of the country understand the bill’s implications and contributions to Nigeria’s development.
According to him, “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, it is that 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, when they understand all the content and everything it’s about, then they can trust it and become advocates for it.
And that is on one side. On the other side, we are in a current situation in our country where we need more revenue in general, and taxation helps citizens to actually have a sense of rights to question how their money is being spent.”
Olufemi Olarinde, Head of Fiscal and Tax Reforms Implementation Division at FIRS, said that the Tax Reform Committee held roundtables across the country to gather input, ensuring that the bill reflects equity and fairness.
“This bill is progressive. It considers every part of the country equitably. While skepticism remains, we urge Nigerians to trust the process and support these reforms for the collective good,” Olarede said.
Addressing concerns from the northern region, where resistance to the bill has been reported, Olarede explained that the reforms prioritise economic stimulation by exempting low-income earners earning below ₦300,000 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, digitizing tax administration will improve compliance and efficiency,” he said.
Moremi Ojudu, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu for Community Engagement in the Southwest, explained the strategic communication framework being deployed.
“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.
Abdullahi Yakasai, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu for Community Engagement in the Northwest,highlighted the use of feedback mechanisms to address 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,” he assured.
