NOA Begins Sensitisation On Tax Reforms

By: Victoria Agorom

To adequately enlighten the citizenry on what is contained in new Tax Reform Bill before the National Assembly, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has begun a nationwide sensitisation campaign.

Accordingly, the sensitization exercise is to highlight the benefits to the country, especially the reliefs to the low income earners.

The Agency aims to sensitise Nigerians on tax reforms, also create awareness on security issues, Human Rights, the HIV/AIDS as well as the ills of the ‘get rich quick syndrome’ prevalent among the youths.

Speaking during a Press Conference to flag off the campaign in Abuja, the Director, NOA, FCT Directorate, Mrs. Joy Agbanusi, said that the programme was aimed at mobilising Nigerians to unite in their commitment to addressing the five pressing issues, to foster a more informed and secured society.

The Director added that the challenges require collective action and active participation from all Nigerians.

She stated that the campaign will compliment efforts made by relevant authorities; adding that viable platforms and initiatives are being introduced by the government to address the issues.

On Tax Reforms, she said that taxation is essential for funding national development but has become a source of concern for many Nigerians due to issues like multiple taxation and its impact on low-income earners.

To address these challenges, Agbanusi said that the government is implementing reforms to make the system fairer and less burdensome for citizens.

Her words: “This bill is just like a compendium of taxes charged in Nigeria. The Nigeria Tax Bill basically amalgamated all the existing laws in which provisions for taxation were made. When passed, the bill will lead to the repeal of 11 laws that contain provisions on imposition and collection of taxes.”

According to her,
“by supporting this effort, we can create a tax system that works for all and funds the development projects that will improve our nation.”

The NOA Director, therefore, called on the media, critical stakeholders, and the general public to join hands in addressing the five critical issues so as to create a society that is healthy, secure, ethical, and united in purpose.

She maintained that the challenges require collaborations from all citizens, stakeholders, and institutions as efforts of government alone may not yield the needed results.

Abuja Digest reports that the National Orientation Agency as an arm of government is majorly saddled with the statutory responsibilities of raising awareness, to adequately inform and moblise citizens for actions aimed at promoting peace, unity and development.