Northern Youth Forum Supports FG’s Tax Reform Bills, Criticizes Northern Governors

Northern Youth Forum Supports FG’s Tax Reform Bills, Criticises Northern Governors

The Progressive Northern Youth Forum (PNYF) has expressed strong support for the Federal Government’s proposed Tax Reform Bill, asserting that it has the potential to significantly improve Nigeria’s economic situation.

In a statement issued on November 2, 2024, General Secretary Abdulkadir Bala revealed the forum’s position following a National Executive Committee meeting that addressed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu‘s rejection of the National Economic Council’s (NEC) recommendation to withdraw the tax reform bills.

PNYF commended President Tinubu for his decision to disregard the opposition from NEC members and the Northern Governors’ Forum, arguing that their stance does not accurately reflect the views of the people in the northern region.

The forum accused the governors of failing to take the initiative in leading the North, suggesting they rely too heavily on federal allocations while neglecting to develop state-generated revenue strategies.

The statement criticised the governors for not proposing their own measures to enhance internal revenue generation during the legislative process, asserting that their calls for withdrawal demonstrate a reluctance to assume responsibility.

“What is the Northern Governors’ Forum afraid of? Clearly, they are afraid of taking responsibility. They want to continue being financially sustained by the Federal Government without making efforts to develop their own revenue-generating initiatives,” the statement read.

The forum further urged the governors to support people-orientated bills from the federal government and fulfil their obligations to the public, warning that ongoing opposition might lead to public demands for their impeachment or resignation.

PNYF praised President Tinubu for his commitment to the tax reform initiatives, noting that the proposed reforms aim to streamline tax administration and align Nigeria’s operations with global best practices.

The forum stated that residents in the North are fully in favour of the tax reform bills, which they believe will enhance economic stability and revenue generation.

The backdrop to this support stems from President Tinubu’s insistence on continuing the legislative process despite the NEC’s recommendation to withdraw the controversial bills.

According to the president’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, any concerns from the NEC could be addressed through public hearings as the legislative process unfolds.

The NEC, which consists of 36 state governors and is chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, had initially recommended withdrawing the tax reform bill following discussions regarding the need for broader stakeholder consultation.

The governors, along with traditional rulers and regional stakeholders, have raised concerns, particularly about the draft provisions related to the derivation-based model for value-added tax (VAT) distribution.