Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, Chairman of the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) Tuesday debunked the report making the rounds that the agency opposed President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills.
Shehu described such reports as “grossly misleading, false, and malicious,” emphasizing that the Commission has been an active participant in the reform process.
“We applaud President Tinubu’s strong commitment to repositioning Nigeria’s revenue base through bold initiatives.
“The proposed tax reform bills are a significant step toward integrating untapped revenue sources, enhancing Nigeria’s revenue-to-GDP ratio, and positioning the country favorably among nations with high fiscal performance,” he said.
While recognizing the debates surrounding Value Added Tax (VAT) allocation and derivation, Dr. Shehu assured Nigerians of the Commission’s commitment to aligning with global best practices.
He revealed that RMAFC has submitted a memorandum emphasizing adherence to these standards to guide the reform process.
The RMAFC chairman disclosed that the proposed tax reforms are undergoing extensive consultations with expert bodies to ensure the legislation is robust, equitable, and effective.
“The Commission is a critical stakeholder in Nigeria’s fiscal framework, and we take our responsibility to provide expert advice seriously. We are working closely with the National Assembly to ensure the proposed bills align with global best practices,” Dr. Shehu noted.
Dr. Shehu condemned the spread of misinformation, stressing that the Commission’s professional advice should not be misinterpreted as opposition.
“It is disheartening to note that, despite our explicit support for the proposed legislation, some individuals have chosen to peddle falsehoods for reasons best known to them. These inaccurate statements can undermine the efforts of patriotic Nigerians tirelessly working to support the President’s vision,” he said.
He urged the media to uphold ethical standards, cautioning against the dissemination of baseless reports.
The reforms aim to enhance fiscal equity, reduce tax evasion, and increase revenue generation while addressing concerns about potential impacts on businesses and individuals.
Dr. Shehu called on Nigerians to rally behind President Tinubu’s bold fiscal reforms, describing them as a crucial step toward economic prosperity.
“At this critical juncture, the President needs the support of all Nigerians. Let us work together to support his vision for a more prosperous Nigeria,” he urged.
The RMAFC also appealed to the media to focus on promoting factual and constructive dialogue in the national interest.
With these reforms, the Tinubu administration aims to strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal foundation and build a sustainable path toward economic growth and development.
