Paragraph 1: RMAFC’s Vehement Denial of Opposition to Tax Reform Bills
The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has categorically refuted reports alleging its opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills currently under consideration by the National Assembly. RMAFC Chairman, Dr. Mohammed Shehu, addressed a press briefing in Abuja, denouncing the reports as "false" and "malicious." He clarified the commission’s stance, emphasizing their full support for the legislative proposals and their active participation in the ongoing reform process. This clarification comes in response to misleading media reports suggesting the RMAFC had "vehemently rejected" the proposed reforms, prompting the commission to address the issue and set the record straight.
Paragraph 2: RMAFC’s Alignment with Tinubu’s Fiscal Vision and Global Best Practices
Dr. Shehu underscored the RMAFC’s alignment with President Tinubu’s vision for a more equitable and sustainable fiscal framework for Nigeria. He explained that the commission had submitted a comprehensive memorandum outlining its position on the tax reforms. This memorandum reflects the RMAFC’s commitment to global best practices and supports the President’s objectives for improving Nigeria’s revenue generation and fiscal performance. The Chairman stated that the proposed reforms represent a critical step towards integrating untapped revenue sources, enhancing Nigeria’s revenue-to-GDP ratio, and positioning the country favorably among nations with strong fiscal performance.
Paragraph 3: RMAFC’s Collaboration with the National Assembly and Support for Fiscal Reforms
The RMAFC Chairman reiterated the commission’s mandate to provide expert advice on fiscal matters and highlighted their close collaboration with the National Assembly to ensure the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed bills. Dr. Shehu emphasized the importance of addressing critical issues such as tax evasion and promoting fiscal fairness. He reaffirmed the RMAFC’s unwavering support for the tax reforms, aligning with their goal of assisting the President in his ongoing fiscal reform initiatives. The commission pledged to continue working diligently to support President Tinubu’s vision for a more prosperous Nigeria.
Paragraph 4: RMAFC’s Role in Ensuring Equitable Revenue Sharing and Supporting Fiscal Policy Objectives
Dr. Shehu underscored the RMAFC’s crucial role in Nigeria’s fiscal framework, specifically their mandate to ensure an equitable revenue-sharing formula among the three tiers of government. The commission takes this responsibility seriously and is committed to providing expert guidance to support the government’s fiscal policy objectives. Their close collaboration with the National Assembly involves providing technical input on the proposed tax reform bills to ensure the legislation is robust, effective, and aligned with global best practices. This collaborative approach aims to create a more equitable and efficient fiscal system for Nigeria.
Paragraph 5: RMAFC’s Commitment to Stakeholder Engagement and Addressing Challenges of Tax Reforms
Recognizing the potential challenges associated with the proposed tax reforms, particularly their impact on businesses and individuals, the RMAFC expressed its commitment to constructive engagement with stakeholders to address these concerns. Dr. Shehu emphasized the potential of the bills to transform Nigeria’s fiscal landscape by promoting fiscal equity, reducing tax evasion, and increasing revenue generation. These objectives align with the RMAFC’s mandate, and the commission pledged its full support for the implementation of these crucial reforms.
Paragraph 6: Call for National Support and Responsible Media Reporting
Dr. Shehu urged Nigerians to unite in supporting President Tinubu’s vision for a prosperous Nigeria and work collaboratively towards the successful implementation of the tax reforms. He underscored the importance of accurate and fair media reporting, cautioning against the spread of misinformation that could undermine the ongoing fiscal reforms. He called upon the media to uphold high journalistic standards and promote truth and accuracy in their reporting, emphasizing their role in facilitating a well-informed public discourse on the proposed tax reforms.
