By Ogochukwu Isioma
The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) have endorsed the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s tax reform bills which have generated much controversy and resistance, particularly among the Northern governors, in the country.
The decision was reached after a meeting with the presidential tax reform committee on Thursday, a communique endorsed by AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Chairman, NGF and Governor of Kwara State, revealed.
According to the communique, the meeting deliberated on critical national issues, including the reform of Nigeria’s fiscal policies and tax system, and adopted several resolutions including:
1. The Forum reiterated its strong support for the comprehensive reform of Nigeria’s archaic tax laws. Members acknowledged the importance of modernizing the tax system to enhance fiscal
stability and align with global best practices.
2. The Forum endorsed a revised Value Added Tax (VAT) sharing formula to ensure equitable distribution of resources:
o 50% based on equality,
o 30% based on derivation, and
o 20% based on population.
3. Members agreed that there should be no increase in the VAT rate or reduction in l Corporate Income Tax (CIT) at this time, to maintain economic stability. The Forum advocated for the continued exemption of essential goods and agricultural produce from VAT to safeguard the welfare of citizens and promote agricultural productivity.
4. The meeting recommended that there should be no terminal clause for TETFUND, NASENI, and NITDA in the sharing of development levies in the bills.
5. The meeting supports the continuation of the legislative process at the National Assembly that will culminate in the eventual passage of the Tax Reform Bills.
