The deputy spokesman of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has expressed confidence that Nigerians will recognise and appreciate the efforts of the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Zacchaeus Adedeji, for spearheading reforms aimed at revitalising the nation’s fiscal policy framework.
According to him, these reforms are encapsulated in four tax bills currently before the House of Representatives for consideration.
The proposed tax bills have sparked tensions between the Federal Government and the 36 state governors, with the latter demanding their withdrawal to allow for more consultations.
Despite some governors reportedly softening their stance, Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, has urged his northern counterparts to reject the bills, warning that their implementation could harm the region’s economy.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Saturday, Agbese praised Adedeji for his innovative approach to tax administration, which has significantly boosted the country’s revenue.
He said, “What FIRS has done in the past few years is commendable. Under the stewardship of Mr. Adedeji, the agency has been surpassing its revenue target.
“Do not forget that the FIRS collected a record N12.37 trillion in 2023, which was 10.7 per cent higher than its target of N10.7 trillion.”
Agbese emphasised that Adedeji’s leadership would soon be widely appreciated, especially once the tax bills are passed and the Federal Government can channel increased revenue into critical infrastructure projects.
“Nigerians will appreciate this man very soon because when these bills are passed and the Federal Government has more money to spend, critical infrastructure will be developed. Jobs will be created, and to a great extent, poverty will be reduced.
“We don’t have many Adedejis in charge of government agencies. From the look of things, he is going to repeat the feat he pulled last year.
“The FIRS set a revenue target of N19.41 trillion for 2024. As of the end of September, it had already collected N18.5 trillion. What that tells us is that we will sing a new song at the end of the year.”
The federal lawmaker also urged Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu’s tax reform bills, noting that lawmakers prioritise the nation’s collective interest over individual or sectional considerations.
“We hope to debate these bills on Tuesday and expect robust deliberation that will ultimately lead to their passage.
“Most of our colleagues have read the bills, and as a result, they are now shifting grounds. Those initially opposed to the bills are now advocating for their speedy consideration and passage.
“When we converge next week, more supporters will have been won over. But I want to emphasise that this is not only about lawmakers. These bills are about Nigerians—from the top company executive to the farmer in a rural village.
“Public policy affects everyone. If passed into law, these bills will rejig the economy and ensure rapid development of critical infrastructure,” Agbese stated.
He also commended President Tinubu for steering the country towards a progressive taxation system.
“Nigeria is going the way of progressive taxation. What this means is that if implemented, we will have a new tax regime that takes away the burden from poor Nigerians and small companies. It is a new thinking that will do us good,” he concluded.
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