Senators from Nigeria’s South-South geopolitical zone have declared their support for the Tax Reform Bills submitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Under the umbrella of the South-South Senators’ Forum, the lawmakers emphasised the importance of the bills in boosting national revenue and stabilising the economy. The proposed legislation includes:

1. Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB.583)
2. Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (SB.584)
3. Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, 2024 (SB.585)
4. Nigeria Tax Bill, 2024 (SB.586)

The bills, which passed their second reading in the Senate on Thursday, were referred to the Senate Committee on Finance, chaired by Senator Sani Musa (Niger East), for further legislative scrutiny and public hearings.

In a statement issued in Abuja, the Forum’s Chairman, Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West), highlighted the lawmakers’ commitment to ensuring the bills align with national interests while addressing the unique needs of the South-South region.

The Senators called on South-South governors to collaborate with lawmakers in refining the bills for mutual benefit. They also urged stakeholders to avoid introducing regional or ethnic sentiments into the legislative process, advocating for constructive dialogue and consultations.

The communiqué, signed by 15 Senators, included prominent figures such as:

• Senator Jarigbe A. Jarigbe (PDP, Cross River North) – Secretary of the Forum
• Senator Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North)
• Senator Munir Ned Nwoko (PDP, Delta North)
• Senator Ipalibo Banigo (PDP, Rivers West)
• Senator Benson Agadaga (PDP, Bayelsa East)

The lawmakers passed a vote of confidence in Senate President Godswill Akpabio, commending his leadership in advancing the Senate’s constitutional mandate.

The Forum reiterated its commitment to fostering peace, progress, and prosperity for the South-South region while contributing to the nation’s broader economic and legislative agenda.