Prominent political leaders and scholars have called for a critical reassessment of Nigeria’s proposed tax reforms, warning that the bills if passed without inclusive consultation could deepen public distrust, economic hardship, and regional divides.
The call was made during a high-level public lecture on “The Politics of Tax Reforms in Nigeria: Expectations and Realities” held on Thursday at Mambayya House, Bayero University Kano.
Kano State Deputy Governor, Aminu Abdulsalam, described the nationwide reaction to the controversial tax reform bill as both encouraging and concerning.
He criticized the federal government’s failure to consult widely, especially with the National Economic Council (NEC), before submitting the bill to the National Assembly.
“The NEC, chaired by the Vice President and comprising all 36 governors, was completely bypassed. That was a major oversight,” he said.
Abdulsalam commended Kano’s proactive response in engaging lawmakers and advocating for amendments.
“We didn’t sit back. We took action, and it is already yielding results,” he said.
He also praised scholars and traditional rulers in the North for uniting in opposition, noting that such national dialogue is vital if we are to arrive at meaningful, people-centered reforms.
Senator Suleiman Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, representing Kano South, described the reform bills as the most deeply analyzed fiscal legislation in recent times.
He warned against ignorance-driven discourse.
“It is only in Northern Nigeria where people speak forcefully on issues they know little about,” he said.
He urged informed civic engagement and emphasized the importance of thoughtful legislation:
“We need lawmakers who can represent our interests wisely,” he added.
While acknowledging concerns like VAT increases, inheritance taxes, and agency scrappings, he called for constructive dialogue, unity, and inclusion.
Professor Kabiru Isa Dandago from BUK’s Accounting Department, was the guest speaker at the event.
He raised serious concerns over proposed reforms such as VAT increases from 7.5% to 15% by 2030 and a development levy that could starve key agencies like TETFund of funding
.
He also criticized the excessive powers proposed for the FIRS Chairman and flagged concerns about inheritance tax provisions.
“Unchecked tax holidays allow multinationals to exploit our economy without meaningful contributions,” he warned.
In his address, the Vice Chancellor of Bayero University Kano, Prof. Sagir Abbas, said the purpose of the lecture was to honor the legacy of Malam Aminu and preserve his values.
He highlighted the timeliness of the topic given the economic pressures of subsidy removal and inflation.
“Tax reform can shape national development, improve service delivery, promote equity, and spur growth but only if handled wisely,
“At a time when Nigerians are grappling with the twin burdens of subsidy removal and rising inflation, it is imperative that we interrogate the ongoing tax reforms through a scholarly lens.
“These reforms, though necessary, must be critically examined for their broader economic implications including rising poverty, deepening inequality, and eroding purchasing power.
“Tax reform should not only raise revenue but promote equity, stimulate growth, and improve public service delivery,” he explained.
