The Nigerian Senate has established a committee led by Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) to resolve contentious issues in the proposed tax reform bills. The committee has been tasked to consult with key stakeholders, including the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and the executive arm, and report back to the Senate before a public hearing on the bills.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin (APC, Kano North) during plenary. Presiding over the session, Barau highlighted widespread concerns over the bills and emphasized the importance of thorough consultation to address the grey areas.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had initially submitted the four tax reform bills to the National Assembly on October 3, 2024. In a letter read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajuddeen Abbas during separate sessions, Tinubu described the reforms as essential to strengthening Nigeria’s fiscal institutions and aligning with his administration’s broader developmental goals.
Despite this, the bills have faced significant opposition from various quarters, including governors, traditional rulers, civil society organizations, and some federal lawmakers, raising concerns over their potential impact.
To ensure a comprehensive review, Barau announced the inclusion of Senators Titus Zam (APC, Benue North West), Orji Uzor Kalu (APC, Abia North), Sani Musa (APC, Niger East), and Abdullahi Yahaya (APC, Kebbi North), among others, as members of the committee.
The committee’s recommendations are expected to shape the Senate’s approach as the tax reform bills move toward public scrutiny.
