President Bola Tinubu has pushed back against the National Economic Council’s (NEC) recommendation to withdraw controversial tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly, calling instead for the legislative process to proceed. This stance follows NEC’s call for further consultation on the bills, which had been met with resistance from the Northern Governors’ Forum, citing regional interests.

In a statement issued Friday by his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu acknowledged NEC’s recommendation while urging patience to allow the legislative process to unfold fully. “President Bola Tinubu has received the National Economic Council’s recommendation that the tax reform bills already sent to the National Assembly be withdrawn for further consultation,” the statement read. Tinubu expressed appreciation for the NEC members’ advice, particularly Vice President Kashim Shettima and the 36 state governors, but emphasized that the National Assembly’s review process offers an ideal platform for input and modifications without halting progress.

“President Tinubu commends the National Economic Council members… for their advice,” the statement continued. “He believes that the legislative process, which has already begun, provides an opportunity for inputs and necessary changes without withdrawing the bills from the National Assembly.”

The president reassured stakeholders that additional contributions could still be made during parliamentary hearings, stressing that the tax reform proposals emerged from thorough consultation led by the Presidential Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy Reform, established in August 2023. The committee, he noted, had sought input from a wide spectrum of society, including trade associations, professional groups, government agencies, governors, traders, students, business owners, and the organized private sector.

Highlighting the significance of the tax bills, Tinubu explained that the reforms aim to modernize Nigeria’s tax administration, streamline processes, and align with global standards, all to enhance economic productivity and foster a more favorable environment for business and investment. “This objective remains more critical today than ever before,” the statement asserted.

As the bills proceed through the legislative process, the president remains open to further consultations, aiming to address concerns while keeping the reform agenda on track.