South-South Senators Back Tinubu’s Tax Reform Bills, Call for Regional and National Cooperation
Senators representing the South-South geopolitical zone have expressed strong support for the Tax Reform Bills proposed by President Bola Tinubu.
These lawmakers, under the South-South Senators’ Forum, have urged governors from the region to align with the initiative, emphasizing its potential to strengthen the economy.
In a statement released in Abuja, the Chairman of the Forum, Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West), revealed that the decision was reached after an extensive review of the bills. The Forum concluded that the reforms are not only in the nation’s interest but also align with the developmental goals of the South-South region.
The lawmakers highlighted that the proposed tax reforms are designed to enhance revenue generation and promote economic stability across the country. They believe these measures will create a more sustainable fiscal framework for both national and regional development.
The Senators representing Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Edo, Cross River, Delta, and Rivers States also took the opportunity to pass a vote of confidence in Senate President Godswill Akpabio, applauding his leadership and commitment to steering the Senate’s constitutional responsibilities effectively.
The Forum cautioned against injecting regional, ethnic, or tribal biases into the legislative process, advocating for open and constructive dialogue to ensure the reforms are inclusive and beneficial to all Nigerians. They called for robust consultations among stakeholders to refine and implement the proposed measures.
The statement was co-signed by 15 Senators, including:
- Senator Jarigbe A. Jarigbe (PDP, Cross River North) – Secretary of the Forum
- Senator Barinada Mpigi (PDP, Rivers South East)
- Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North)
- Senator Neda Imasuen (LP, Edo South)
- Senator Munir Ned Nwoko (PDP, Delta North)
- Senator Thomas Joel-Onowakpo (APC, Delta South)
- Senator Aniekan Bassey (PDP, Akwa Ibom South)
- Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong (APC, Cross River South)
- Senator Allwell Onyeso (PDP, Rivers East)
- Senator Ipalibo Banigo (PDP, Rivers West)
- Senator Benson Agadaga (PDP, Bayelsa East)
- Senator Konbowei Benson (PDP, Bayelsa Central)
- Senator Eteng Jonah Williams (APC, Cross River Central)
- Senator Ekong Sampson (PDP, Akwa Ibom South)
- Senator Ede Dafinone (APC, Delta Central)
The Senators reiterated their dedication to crafting a legislative agenda that fosters peace, prosperity, and progress while addressing the unique challenges and aspirations of the South-South region.
The proposed bills, introduced by President Tinubu, include the following:
- Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB.583)
- Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB.584)
- Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, 2024 (SB.585)
- Nigeria Tax Bill, 2024 (SB.586)
These bills have already progressed to the second reading stage in the Senate, signaling significant legislative momentum.
The South-South Senators’ Forum emphasized that these reforms represent a critical step toward strengthening Nigeria’s fiscal policy, reducing reliance on oil revenue, and ensuring sustainable development across all regions. They pledged their commitment to working with other stakeholders to refine and implement these proposals, aiming to enhance economic stability for the benefit of all Nigerians.
By prioritizing collaboration and avoiding divisive rhetoric, the Forum hopes to build consensus around the tax reforms, ensuring they serve as a foundation for long-term economic growth.
