President Bola Tinubu has lauded Nigerian governors for their endorsement of the Tax Reform Bills, describing their support as a “bold and commendable step.”

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) on Thursday endorsed the contentious bills, a decision welcomed by advocates of tax reform. Following the development, presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga expressed the President’s appreciation for the governors’ backing.

In a statement released on Friday evening, Onanuga said, “President Bola Tinubu expresses gratitude to the Nigeria Governors’ Forum for their unanimous approval of the four Tax Reform Bills currently before the National Assembly. This decision demonstrates bold leadership and a commitment to unity among leaders, transcending regional, ethnic, and political divides to foster national development.”

The governors’ decision followed a meeting with the Presidential Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy, which the presidency described as “an exemplary instance of cooperation between the Federal and State governments.” Tinubu noted that the dialogue underscored “the power of constructive engagement in resolving differences.”

The President thanked the NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, for rallying support for the transformative bills aimed at rejuvenating the national economy and improving Nigeria’s investment climate. He also commended the Progressive Governors Forum, the Northern Governors Forum, and other bipartisan groups that contributed to resolving controversies surrounding the reforms.

Despite resistance, particularly from the northern region, Tinubu described the bills as “pro-poor” initiatives intended to promote national interests, enhance Nigeria’s economic competitiveness, and attract local and foreign investments. He emphasised the necessity of updating outdated tax laws to achieve these objectives.

“The governors are pivotal to nation-building, and the President remains committed to collaborating with them to promote economic growth, peace, and stability,” Onanuga stated. Tinubu also urged other stakeholders to engage with the legislative process to refine the Tax Bills and called on the National Assembly to expedite their passage to enable the country to reap the benefits of the reforms.

In October, the President submitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly, including the Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Tax Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill. He also proposed repealing the law establishing the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and replacing it with the Nigeria Revenue Service.