President Bola Tinubu has doubled down on his administration’s controversial tax reform bills, declaring that there will be no reversal despite widespread opposition.
Speaking during his maiden presidential media chat on Monday night, Tinubu defended the reforms as essential for Nigeria’s economic revival, asserting that the nation cannot rely on outdated systems.
“Tax reform is here to stay. We cannot continue with the practices of the past in today’s economy. Revitalizing this economy requires abandoning old, broken methods,” Tinubu stated.
“I believe I have the capacity to lead this change—that’s why I ran for office. This is not about instant gratification, but a new dawn for Nigeria, and I am fully committed to it.”
The reforms, introduced on October 3, were submitted to the National Assembly as four separate bills. However, they have sparked heated debates, particularly in the Northern region, where resistance has been strongest.
Despite calls from the National Economic Council (NEC) for Tinubu to withdraw the bills to allow for further consultations, the president remains resolute, insisting that the legislative process must proceed uninterrupted.
“This is about what Nigeria needs, not about short-term comfort,” Tinubu emphasised during the broadcast.
The reforms mark a significant step in Tinubu’s broader economic agenda, which has already drawn both praise and criticism, particularly following his controversial removal of the petrol subsidy earlier this year.
