NOA Seeks Nigerians’ Support for Tax Reform Bills

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called for public support for the ongoing tax reform bills, urging citizens to avoid ethnic sentiments in the discussion. Speaking at a press conference in Port Harcourt on Thursday, NOA Director General, Lanre Issa-Onilu, emphasized that the bills aim to make tax imposition and remittance fairer, more transparent, and less burdensome for Nigerians.

Represented by the agency’s National Director of General Services, Rebecca Nasamu, Issa-Onilu explained that the tax reform bills are designed to eliminate double taxation and establish a progressive tax regime that incorporates technology. He pointed out that the Nigeria Tax Bill is a consolidation of existing tax laws, which will streamline the taxation process. Once passed, the bill will repeal eleven laws related to tax imposition and collection, ensuring a more efficient and fair tax system.

“The new bill will help to eliminate double taxes and ease the burden on low-income earners, ensuring that those who earn very little pay little or no taxes at all, which will help them manage their finances better,” Issa-Onilu stated. He further assured that the introduction of digital systems would make tax payments faster, easier, and more transparent.

Issa-Onilu also highlighted that the reforms are aimed at ensuring that hardworking Nigerians contribute fairly to national development. “Supporting these reforms will create a tax system that works for everyone and funds development projects that will improve our nation,” he said. He also clarified that the tax reform focuses more on sugary beverages rather than alcohol, addressing misconceptions in some parts of the country. “This is to ensure we raise more revenues for critical sectors such as education and health,” he added.

Rivers State NOA Director, Young Ayotamuno, also spoke at the event, noting that the bills would encourage the production of key goods in Nigeria. He explained that the reform exempts individuals earning less than 800,000 naira annually from taxation. Ayotamuno also mentioned that the Senate has set up a committee to resolve the differences in the bills and expressed hope that the country will adopt a tax regime that is both progressive and promotes economic growth.

“The bill is still a work in progress, but we are optimistic that, as a nation that cares for one another, we will eventually sustain a tax system that enhances production and makes all citizens happy,” Ayotamuno said.