The proposed new tax regime is struggling to strike a chord with Nigerians, and not because it is
Inherently flawed, but because its implementation overlooked a crucial element: tax morale.
Controversy surrounding the passage of the bill, as well as conflicting views from citizens
and interest groups, highlighting a fundamental issue – the government's approach to tax
The reform has been overly technical, ignoring the social contract between taxpayers and
State.
Taiwo Oyedele The President's Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Committee did admirable work on technical aspects, but its narrow focus ignored the bigger picture: promoting a healthy tax culture. In a country where citizens are struggling with basic needs like hunger, poverty and illiteracy, tax compliance will remain a challenge if the government does not address these underlying issues.
Passage of the tax bill should have been an opportunity to deal with comprehensive taxation
Issues and rebuilding trust. Instead, we are now in a fragmented implementation phase
narrative. Now it's time to press the reset button.
The clock is ticking, and there are discrepancies between the bills passed by the National Assembly
And an immediate solution is needed to save the credibility of the gazetted edition. national tax
Policy Implementation Committee to hit the ground running with Kayode Tegbe as Chairman
Engaging citizens and stakeholders to create a tax system that is fit for purpose.
It is important to build consensus on taxation and educate citizens about the new system
Center stage. It is not just about revenue collection; It's about redefining the relationship
Between Nigerians and their government. By giving priority to transparency, accountability and
Through citizen engagement, we can create a tax system that works for everyone.
I would recommend the following next steps:
1. Address discrepancies: The National Assembly and the Executive must urgently
Reconcile differences between the passed bill and the gazetted version.
2. Stakeholder Engagement: The Tegbe Implementation Committee should be involved
Citizens, civil society and private sector stakeholders must come together to create a tax regime
Inclusive and equitable.
3. Tax education: Launch a nationwide campaign to educate citizens about the new tax
Governance, its benefits and their responsibilities.
4. Address underlying issues: Government must demonstrate its commitment
To address fundamental challenges like hunger, poverty and illiteracy to boost morale.
The way forward requires more than just policy changes; This demands a cultural change. let's go
Reframe the conversation, prioritize tax morale and collective compliance
responsibility.
Maduegbuna is C&F Porter Novelli, President of Strategic Communications
Consultancy
