The Nigerian Senate has passed the remaining two of President Bola Tinubu’s four tax reform bills, which had recently sparked controversy. The passage occurred during a plenary session held on Thursday, after a thorough clause-by-clause consideration that led to the removal of contentious areas. The newly enacted legislations include the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill and the Nigeria Tax Bill.
After the Senate announced the passage of the bills through a majority voice vote, Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the lawmakers for their efforts in ensuring Nigeria’s tax system meets international standards. He stated that the four executive bills aim to transform and modernize the tax system in Nigeria.
The move came barely 24 hours after the Upper Chamber cleared two of the bills. Addressing journalists after the plenary, Senator Sani Musa, Chairman of the ad hoc committee for the tax reform bills, explained that the committee worked to ensure the taxation system in Nigeria meets international standards. He noted that the committee underwent a public hearing, retreat with relevant stakeholders, and agreed on key points such as the Nigerian Revenue Service needing at least six directors.
Musa also mentioned that the senators recommended the president appoint a chairman and create an ombudsman to handle tax-related matters. He emphasized the need for a tax tribunal, stating it would be beneficial. The senator expressed optimism that Nigerians would benefit from the reforms and commended the President for providing a level playing field.
Earlier, the Nigerian Senate had passed two of the four tax reform bills, namely the Nigerian Revenue Service Establishment Bill and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill. Their passage followed a review of an ad hoc committee report led by Senator Sani Musa. The bills were passed with little resistance through a voice vote dominated by the ruling party majority, with Senate President Godswill Akpabio announcing their passage.
