The Tax Reform Bill engagement.jpg

Richard Elesho

Kogi State Commissioner for Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, Asiwaju Idris Asiru, has endorsed the Tax Reform Bill currently before the National Assembly explaining that the initiative was designed to foster collaboration between the government and citizens.

He made this known on Monday at a public engagement and interactive session organised by his Ministry in Lokoja, the state capital. He noted that the reform bill favours the low income earners.

“The purpose of this engagement is to provide a platform for citizens to engage with policymakers, understand the importance of the proposed tax reform, and explore how it can benefit the state,” Asiru said. He further assured that the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance under Governor Usman Ododo’s administration.

Asiru stated, “Tax reform plays a crucial role in ensuring fair taxation, enhancing revenue generation, and promoting economic growth in our state. Tax reforms are not just about numbers; they impact the services we deliver and the future of our economy.”

The Commissioner encouraged citizens to participate in the ongoing consultation process, offering feedback and suggestions to ensure the final bills align with the needs and aspirations of Kogi State’s residents.

Sule Enehe, Chairman of the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service, explained that the proposed tax reform bills are designed to streamline tax administration, ease the burden on low-income earners, and stimulate economic growth.

Enehe highlighted some key proposals, including exemptions for small businesses, simplification of the VAT regime, and the introduction of a windfall tax on Nigerian banks’ FX profits. He also discussed topics such as the importance of tax compliance, its impact on public service delivery, strategies to enhance public participation in the tax system, and addressing common misconceptions about taxes.

At the event, Hon. Duro Meseko, National Deputy Publicity Secretary of the APC, expressed the party’s full support for President Bola Tinubu and his economic policies. He emphasized that the President’s reforms, if implemented, would benefit citizens.