The previous Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, has urged the Nationwide Meeting to pause legislative actions on the proposed tax reform payments for broader consultations and to deal with crucial ambiguities.
In a press release shared on his verified Fb web page, Professor Pantami emphasised the significance of a cautious and inclusive legislative course of.
“The invoice has the potential to remodel tax assortment administration if improved and applied within the nationwide curiosity. However, there are crucial observations that must be addressed, together with a possible battle with the Federal Republic of Nigeria’s structure,” he said.
Pantami identified issues about sections of the Nigeria Tax Administrative Invoice, 2024, which he argued lacked clear definitions and will create implementation challenges. He additionally highlighted the chance of regulatory exploitation attributable to these ambiguities.
“In management, the power to vary one’s thoughts is an indication of intelligence and empathy, not weak point,” Pantami stated, urging the Nationwide Meeting to droop legislative motion and have interaction with stakeholders, together with tax specialists, constitutional attorneys, and enterprise analysts.
He referred to as for a evaluate of sections corresponding to 3(3), 7(6), 8(2), 23, 28, 95, 96, 97, 118, and 141, underscoring the necessity to handle ambiguities.
Pantami additionally emphasised the significance of rebuilding belief between the federal government and residents, which he described as important for nationwide progress.
“Residents are largely suspicious. Constructing belief is essential at this juncture for all arms and tiers of presidency. We should additionally prioritize our nationwide curiosity over and above our private pursuits,” he stated.
Concluding, Pantami referred to as for goal and significant discussions on nationwide points and prayed for Nigeria’s prosperity.
