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Tax Reform: Speaker Abbas Assure Youths Will Be Considered

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1 year ago

March 4, 2025

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By Gloria Ikibah

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas has assured the various youth groups that their input will be factored in the review of the proposals ahead of their passage of the Tax Reform Bills by the parliament.

Speaker Abbas who was represented by Rep. Leke Abejide (ADC, Kogi), stated this at the National Youth Dialogue on Tax Reform Bills on Monday in Abuja.

According to him, the Tax Reform Bills is a catalysts of economic growth and national progress.

“These bills will prepare the country to be economically viable, technologically independent of other nations,” he said.

In his welcome address, Chairman House Committee on Youths in Parliament, Rep. Ayodeji Alao-Akala said the review of the nation’s tax laws has become necessary to address contemporary challenges in fiscal policies.

Chairman noted that young people, particularly those engaged in micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), are among the most affected by taxation policies.

Naijablitznews.com recalled that last week, the Senate and House of Representatives held public hearing on the Tax Reform Bills transmitted to the parliament in October 2024 and pledged their readiness to review the proposed legislation in the country’s interest.

He said: “If we get it right with the youth, we get it right with the country, Iurge young Nigerians to contribute meaningful ideas to the bill”

Rep. Alao-Akala sad that most low-income earners in Nigeria are youths, struggling to start businesses, rent homes, or make financial progress.

According to him the proposed tax reforms aim to ease this burden by ensuring fairer policies that support entrepreneurship and economic independence.

The Chairman insisted that delaying reform any further would be detrimental, emphasizing that “tomorrow never comes; the time to act is now.”

Similarly cross section of youth groups at the Public hearing, backed the tax reform bills currently under consideration by both chambers of the National Assembly.

One of the Groups, Alumni Association of the Legislative Mentorship Initiative commended the Federal Government proposals, saying that if implemented, the reforms are capable of changing the nation’s economic narrative.

“This proposed legislation is not merely a collection of fiscal policies; it is a blueprint that will shape the economic trajectory of our nation and more importantly, directly impact the lives of our youth, who largely represent the present and future of Nigeria,” representative of the association, Abubakar Tijani said.

He called for a balanced exchange of views, adding that as good as the bills were, there were areas of uncertainty that needed some clarity for the benefit of Nigerians.

“As we engage in this critical discourse, we must approach the subject with a balanced perspective, acknowledging the bill’s potential benefits while also addressing its areas of concern. Our collective goal must be to ensure that this legislation fosters inclusive growth, empowers our citizens, and lays a solid foundation for sustainable development,” Tijani added.

He listed the positives of the tax reform proposals to include company income tax reduction, support for small businesses, personal income tax relief and VAT exemptions on essential goods and services, among others.

“One of the most notable features of the bill is the proposed reduction in the Company Income Tax rate. The current rate of 30 per cent is set to decrease to 27.5 per cent in 2025, with a further reduction to 25 per cent by 2026. This measure is designed to stimulate business growth, enhance corporate profitability, and attract both domestic and foreign investments.

“By lowering the tax burden on companies, the government aims to encourage reinvestment, innovation, and job creation, all of which are critical for economic expansion. For the youth, this could translate into increased employment opportunities and a more vibrant private sector.

“The bill also introduces a significant exemption for small businesses with an annual turnover of ₦50m or less. These enterprises will no longer be required to pay income tax, a move that alleviates financial pressures on small-scale entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of entrepreneurship.

“Another laudable aspect of the bill is the exemption of workers earning ₦800,000 annually or less from personal income tax. This measure provides much-needed relief to low-income earners, many of whom are young professionals just starting their careers.

By increasing disposable income, the government is not only improving the standard of living for these individuals but also stimulating consumer spending, which is a key driver of economic activity,” he added.

That said, Tijani pointed out grey areas which require legislative intervention given the nation’s fragile economy.

“The bill proposes a gradual increase in the VAT rate, starting from the current 7.5 per cent to 10 per cent in 2025, 12.5 per cent in 2026, and 15 per cent by 2030. While this measure is intended to boost government revenue, it could have adverse effects on consumers.

“An increase in VAT often leads to higher prices for goods and services, which could erode purchasing power and exacerbate inflationary pressures. For the youth, who are already grappling with high unemployment rates, this could further strain their financial circumstances. It is essential to consider the broader implications of this policy on the cost of living and economic stability.

“Another concerning provision is the plan to cease funding for critical agencies such as the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, National Information Technology Development Agency by 2030.

“These agencies play a pivotal role in advancing education, technology, and innovation, sectors that are indispensable for youth development and national progress. TETFUND, for instance, has been instrumental in improving infrastructure and quality in tertiary institutions, while NASENI and NITDA have driven technological innovation and digital transformation. Cutting funding to these agencies could hinder their ability to deliver on their mandates, thereby hindering progress in areas that are crucial for the youth and the nation’s future.

“The bill also proposes imposing taxes on businesses operating in Free Trade Zones. These zones have historically enjoyed tax exemptions as an incentive to attract investments and stimulate economic activity. By introducing taxes, the government risks deterring investors and undermining the competitiveness of these zones.

“This could lead to reduced economic activity, job losses, and a decline in foreign direct investment. For the youth, who often benefit from employment opportunities in these zones, this could have far-reaching implications,” he further said.

The association recommended the retention of the current VAT rate and urged the Federal Government to continue to fund agencies like TETFUND, NASENI and NITDA which he said are needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.

In its contribution, the Centre for African Policy Research Advisory, called for the involvement of Nigerians in the implementation of the bills when they are eventually passed into law.

Speaking on behalf of the Centre, Segun Adebayo emphasised the need for the protection of the nation’s tax sovereignty.

“Tax sovereignty refers to a nation-state’s right to control its tax policies. It is closely tied to a country’s ability to govern effectively and democratically,” he said.

One of the lead partners in the dialogue, Project Sprint, in its contribution, said the bills hold the potential to reduce the budget deficit, decrease government dependence on borrowing, curtail tensions across socioeconomic strata, and attract foreign investments.

Coordinator of the group, Isreal James in his speech, pointed out areas of concern in the proposed reforms, saying, “One critical aspect to consider is the microeconomic implications of personal income tax on labour supply.

“Many youths in Nigeria fall within the wage bracket of 70,000 to 150,000 naira per month. Taxing this demographic could have detrimental effects, especially for those on the verge of paying off academic loans and starting their lives.

“As we navigate the modern era, it is crucial to recognise that services such as telecommunications and digital transactions are essential. To disregard these services as non-essential would be a step backwards in our progress.

“We advocate for a reduction in VAT to between 3.5 per cent and 5 per cent to better reflect our GDP per capita. While encouraging states to compete economically to improve their VAT collection is commendable, it is equally important for the Federal Government to empower states to effectively manage their economies. One way to achieve this is through the decentralisation of port construction, ensuring that states have the necessary infrastructure to thrive,” he said.

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List: FG endorses 33 more universities

Published

7 hours ago

August 3, 2026

EMMANUEL AGAJI

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The Federal Government has endorsed 33 new universities across Nigeria, increasing the total number of universities in the country to 309.

The approvals include seven federal universities, six state-owned universities and 20 private universities.

The seven new federal universities are the Federal University of Environment and Technology, Tai, Rivers State; Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, Kaduna State; Tai Solarin Federal University of Education, Ijagun, Ogun State; Federal University of Agriculture and Developmental Studies, Iragbiji, Osun State; Federal University of Technology and Environmental Studies, Iyin-Ekiti, Ekiti State; Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Okeho, Oyo State; and the Federal University of Health Science and Technology, Tsafe, Zamfara State.

The six new state universities are Abdulsalam Abubakar University of Agriculture and Climate Action, Mokwa, Niger State; Ebonyi State University of ICT, Science and Technology, Oferekpe, Ebonyi State; University of Aeronautics and Aerospace Engineering, Ezza, Ebonyi State; Benue State University of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Ihugh; Cross River University of Education and Entrepreneurship, Akamkpa, Cross River State; and the University of Innovation, Science and Technology, Omuma, Imo State.

The approvals also include 20 private universities.

Among them are Omega University in Delta State, Regnum Medical University in Lagos State, Transatlantic University of Medicine and Health Sciences in Anambra State, City University in Ogun State, University of Fortune in Ondo State, Eranova University in the Federal Capital Territory, Minaret University in Osun State, Abdulrasaq Abubakar Toyin University in Kwara State, Southern Atlantic University in Akwa Ibom State, Lens University in Kwara State, Monarch University in Ogun State, Tonnie Iredia University of Communication in Edo State, Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management in Lagos State, Kevin Eze University in Enugu State, Bridget University in Imo State, Leadership University in Abuja, Jimoh Babalola University in Kwara State, Greenland University, JEFAP University in Niger State, Azione Verde University in Imo State and Unique Open University in Lagos State.

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FG bars MDAs from awarding contracts without warrants

Published

8 hours ago

August 3, 2026

EMMANUEL AGAJI

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Disturbed by the manner Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government, MDAs flagrantly spend money without adequately aligning with Revised Bottom-Up-Cash Management Policy Framework, to this end, the Federal Government welded the big stick by barring MDAs from awarding contracts without warrants.

Ministry of Finance in a circular has ordered that due process must be followed or heavy sanctions awaits such government bodies.

In a circular signed by the Minister of Finance, Taiwo Oyedele in a sighted by this medium, it was expressly stated that :”The revision of this policy will further ensure that MDAs comply with statutory and regulatory provisions governing public financial management”.

In the memo it was also stated that “It should be noted that Accounting Officers who contravene this policy shall be personally liable for any resultant commitments, in accordance with the provisions of • Financial Regulation 310 (Personal Responsibility for Expenditure • Public Service Rules 030402 (Serious Misconduct • Fiscal Responsibility Act Section 48 (Offences and Penalties – Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act (ICPC Section 22 Sub-sections 4.

Under the new framework, no MDA is permitted to issue letters of award, sign contracts or enter into financial obligations unless the corresponding Warrant or Authority to Incur Expenditure covering the full or committed portion of the contract sum has been duly released by the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy to the Accountant General of the Federation.

The circular also makes it clear that budgetary allocations alone do not constitute legal authority to spend public funds.

According to the directive, “Estimates in the Appropriation Act or budgetary provisions do not confer automatic spending authority. Only duly released Warrants/AIE issued by the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy in line with Financial Regulation 301 confer legal authority to incur expenditure.”

The policy cites Financial Regulation 415, Section 22 of the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007, Section 16(1)(b) of the Public Procurement Act, 2007 and relevant provisions of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act as the legal basis for the revised framework.

Government said the new measures are designed to align financial commitments with actual funds availability, strengthen expenditure controls and halt the growing accumulation of unfunded contractual liabilities arising from contracts awarded without the necessary financial backing.

The circular also introduces changes to the cash management process by abolishing the requirement for MDAs to submit monthly cash needs before the issuance of Warrants. Instead, Warrants will be issued based on approved budget implementation priorities and available Capital Development Fund balances.

In addition, all MDAs are required to prepare quarterly cash plans in line with their ministerial priorities and procurement plans for submission to the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation to improve cash flow forecasting and budget execution.

The Federal Government warned that Accounting Officers who disregard the directive would bear personal responsibility for any commitments arising from contracts awarded in violation of the policy.

It stated that such officers would be held liable in accordance with the Financial Regulations, the Public Service Rules, the Fiscal Responsibility Act and other applicable laws governing public financial management.

The directive takes immediate effect and supersedes all previous instructions inconsistent with the revised framework. It also provides that all 2026 capital projects across Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies shall be implemented in accordance with the new policy.

The government directed all Accounting Officers, Directors and Heads of Finance and Accounts, as well as Internal Audit Departments and Units across MDAs and other arms of government, to ensure strict compliance with the circular.

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Posterity will judge you well for devt of FCT -First Lady Remi Tinubu

Published

8 hours ago

August 3, 2026

EMMANUEL AGAJI

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…Commends Wike’s Green Transformation of Abuja, Urges States to Engage Youth in Environmental Protection

First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for transforming Abuja’s City Gate into a major recreational and environmental landmark.

She was speaking during a ceremony to honour the FCT Administration for its environmental efforts which she said is in line with the just concluded category of the ongoing Green Nigeria Challenge of the Renewed Hope Initiative.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu said she was impressed by the transformation of the City Gate, describing it as “unbelievable.”

She stated that despite a ₦50 million prize set aside under the Green Challenge to encourage states to reclaim abandoned spaces and dumpsites, no state entered for that category of the competition.

“It was a ₦50 million prize money and they didn’t enter. This was supposed to get our youth involved,” she said.

The First Lady explained that the initiative was designed to encourage states to convert neglected public spaces into clean and attractive environments.

“The transformation reflects the vision behind the just concluded Community Category of the Challenge which was designed to encourage youth groups to transform degraded public spaces, including dumpsites and abandoned areas, into green parks, gardens and other eco-friendly spaces. Our goal is to compliment government’s effort in beautifying our environment and promoting healthier communities towards improving the quality of life of our people.”

“The remodeled Abuja City Gate is an excellent example of what abandoned public areas can become: a transformed key national landmark that warmly welcomes all Nigerians and visitors to our nation’s capital.”

“When I saw what he did with the City Gate, my God, unbelievable, unbelievable. I want to thank him. He’s done very well.”

“This was to turn around abandoned spaces, dumpsites, and we see a lot of it around the states.”

Senator Oluremi Tinubu also appealed to Wives of State Governors to mobilise the youth to participate in environmental clubs and sustainability initiatives in schools and tertiary institutions.

“I’m using this opportunity to appeal to our First Ladies: Get our young children into the environmental clubs and environmental societies for our youth in tertiary institutions.”

“I remember when I was in the College of Education, I was a member of the Youth Environmental Programme for West Africa. We travelled from Nigeria throughout West Africa by road. It was a memorable experience for us.”

According to the First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, young people must be encouraged to contribute to national development through environmental stewardship.

“We have to engage our young people and make sure that they can help build. Everybody has something to contribute to this country. It’s a great country and that’s why we are doing all we can.”

In his remarks, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike revealed that the First Lady personally inspired the transformation of Abuja’s City Gate.

“The First Lady has to be commended for the FCT keying into the Renewed Hope Green Initiative because she has always said we have to change our environment and create opportunities where people can gather and relax.”