Nigeria’s tax system long overdue for reforms, says minister

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called for increased public trust and dialogue as Nigeria undertakes critical tax reforms aimed at spurring economic growth.

This is just as he argued that the nation’s tax administration system has become long overdue for reforms.

Idris, who spoke at a national discourse organised by the Kaduna Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, on Saturday, in Kaduna State, stressed the role of public relations in bridging the gap between the government and the public.

Themed “Tax Reforms: The Role of Public Relations in Fostering Constructive Dialogue for National Economic Renaissance,” the event explored the importance of effective communication in building consensus on the nation’s fiscal agenda.

Idris highlighted the urgent need to overhaul Nigeria’s tax system, describing it as plagued by outdated structures and a general mistrust among taxpayers.

“All over the world, effective taxation is important as a source of financial power for governments to provide social services for their citizens.

“However, there is plenty of reason to believe and assert that Nigeria’s tax administration system has become long overdue for reform, on account of design and implementation flaws as well as the general attitudes of taxpayers toward taxation,” he said.

He commended the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reform for its transparent approach and broad public engagement, noting that the ongoing review of tax laws is a critical step in laying a solid foundation for economic recovery.

“President Tinubu has also been very clear that the Executive will listen to and work with all stakeholders to ensure that all concerns are duly and comprehensively addressed.

“We will continue to ensure open lines of communication and engagement with the National Assembly and all other stakeholders on these taxation bills.

“We are all in this together, as one people, one nation, and just as we are being called upon to make collective sacrifices, we will also collectively reap the abundant social and economic benefits of all of these necessary reforms,” the minister added.

Idris emphasised that public relations practitioners have a unique role in shaping narratives, promoting collaboration, and fostering trust between the government and the citizenry.

“It is at times like this that we are reminded of the important roles of Public Relations in the maintenance of a functioning and healthy society.

“By facilitating purposeful communication, building mutual understanding, and transparent promotion of ideas, Public Relations practice and practitioners can help create a culture of collaboration and progress,” he said.

The minister also reassured Nigerians that the Tinubu administration remains committed to participatory democracy. He noted that open communication, inclusivity, and transparency are central to ensuring that the reforms deliver equitable benefits.