The Ekiti State Caucus of the National Assembly has expressed its support for the Tax Reform Bills proposed by President Bola Tinubu.
The position of the Ekiti State Caucus was made known in a statement issued by the nine members who make up the caucus on Monday.
The statement said: “The Ekiti State Caucus in the National Assembly has followed with keen interest the ongoing deliberations surrounding the four landmark tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly.
“The proposed legislations – the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, 2024; Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, 2024; Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024; and Nigeria Tax Bill, 2024 – represent a visionary effort to modernise Nigeria’s fiscal framework.
“These reforms are a testament to the bold and transformative agenda of H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, which has prioritised economic growth, inclusivity, and national prosperity.
“In a historic move, the Ekiti State Caucus is proud to be the first State Caucus in the National Assembly to unanimously endorse these critical tax reform bills. Under the leadership of Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, the Caucus has actively participated in consultations and engagements across both Chambers of the National Assembly and remains fully committed to ensuring the passage of these bills in both the Senate and the House of Representatives.
“These bills aim to strengthen Nigeria’s revenue generation system, ensuring sustainable funding for critical sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social welfare.
“The caucus has engaged extensively with stakeholders in the state, including the H.E. Governor Biodun Oyebanji – led state government, and determined that for Ekiti State, and indeed all states, these reforms are tangible steps that will improve the quality of life for our citizens. Additionally, these reforms will simplify the tax system, foster local entrepreneurship, attract investment, and create employment opportunities, driving economic growth across the state and the nation.
“The establishment of the Tax Appeal Tribunal and the Office of the Tax Ombudsman will further entrench transparency, accountability, and fairness in tax administration, protecting taxpayers’ rights and fostering trust in the system.
“While dissenting voices have emerged, as is expected in any vibrant democracy, we are confident that the compelling merits of these reforms will secure their eventual passage. The Ekiti State Caucus encourages constructive debates, recognising that such discussions enrich our democratic processes.
“We also call on all stakeholders, including state governments, private sector leaders, civil society, and citizens, to support these transformative bills. Their success is not only a win for the Tinubu administration but also a critical step toward building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
“As representatives of Ekiti State, we remain resolute in our support for initiatives that prioritise economic growth and enhance the welfare of our people. These reforms underscore our collective commitment to a better future, and we urge all Nigerians to embrace this bold step toward national development.”
The statement was signed by Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, Ekiti Central Senatorial District; Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Ekiti South Senatorial District; Senator Cyril Fasuyi, Ekiti North Senatorial District; Rep. Olufemi Richard Bamisile, Member Representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency II; and Rep. Olusola Steve Fatoba, Member Representing Ado/Irepodun-Ifelodun Federal Constituency.
The others who signed the statement were Rep. Biodun Emmanuel Omoleye, Member Representing Ekiti North Federal Constituency II (Ido-Osi/Moba/Ilejemeje); Rep. Rufus Sunday Ojuawo, Member Representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I; Rep. Akinlayo Davidson Kolawole, Member Representing Ekiti Ijero/Efon/Ekiti West Federal Constituency; and Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr., Member Representing Ekiti North Federal Constituency I (Ikole/Oye).