Tax reform: Oyedele addresses stakeholder engagement concerns

The Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, has underscored the necessity of nationwide consultations on the proposed tax reforms, despite resistance from some northern governors.

Speaking on Arise Television on Sunday, Oyedele refuted claims of inadequate stakeholder engagement, attributing missed consultations to cancelled meetings with governors’ forums.

“We have more than 20 government institutions represented, alongside private sector players, manufacturers, women in business, and 45 students from 22 universities across Nigeria,” he explained. Oyedele revealed that efforts to meet governors from six geopolitical zones only succeeded with Lagos State’s governor, despite invitations to others.

Highlighting the committee’s outreach, Oyedele mentioned discussions with various groups, including over 120 northern clerics. “We had an interesting meeting with the Ulamas. They had been misinformed, but after our explanations, many of them prayed for the work we’ve done,” he shared.

The proposed reforms, which include the Value Added Tax bill, have sparked opposition from certain northern governors, who claim the changes could harm their states’ revenue.

However, Oyedele stressed the importance of an equitable tax system for national progress, urging critics to address specific disagreements rather than dismissing transformative bills.

“Why not discuss those issues and let lawmakers decide the final position?” he questioned. Committed to resolving concerns, Oyedele emphasized the committee’s readiness to continue engaging stakeholders for a smooth implementation of the reforms.