Senate President Godswill Akpabio has reassured Nigerians that the passage of proposed tax reform bills will deliver tangible benefits and strengthen democracy once signed into law by President Bola Tinubu.

In his New Year message, Akpabio urged citizens to embrace hope and unity as the nation implements critical reforms. He stated, “The reforms introduced by this administration, particularly in tax policy, are designed to deliver sustainable dividends of democracy. Together, we can achieve greatness for Nigeria.”

Akpabio extended his greetings to President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, and members of the Armed Forces, wishing them a prosperous New Year. He also commiserated with families who lost loved ones in the past year.

Reflecting on the progress made in 2024, Akpabio commended his colleagues in the National Assembly for their dedication to legislative responsibilities. “As Senate President, I remain committed to promoting the welfare and prosperity of all Nigerians. We will continue to legislate, oversee, and represent the interests of our constituents with integrity and transparency,” he pledged.

In a separate New Year message, Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State urged Nigerians to support Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda. “The President’s bold initiatives will bear fruit in the coming year and beyond,” Ododo said. He also outlined his administration’s focus on youth empowerment, women’s development, and impactful community projects.

Meanwhile, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf criticised the proposed tax reform bills, calling them “ill-timed and detrimental to national unity.” Speaking through his deputy, Aminu Gwarzo, during New Year celebrations in Kano, Yusuf emphasised the need for the Federal Government to prioritise tackling poverty and insecurity.

“We cannot support policies that exacerbate the suffering of our people. The North, in particular, is facing severe economic challenges. Addressing poverty and hunger should take precedence,” Yusuf declared. He also highlighted his administration’s achievements in healthcare, education, and infrastructure, while celebrating the reinstatement of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II as a triumph of the people’s will.

In their New Year messages, several senators, including Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Solomon Adeola, called on Nigerians to remain resilient and optimistic about the future. Adeola, Chair of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, expressed confidence that ongoing reforms under the ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda would yield positive results in 2025.