The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission, RMAFC, Mohammed Bello Shehu, has dismissed media reports claiming the commission is opposed to the executive tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly.
In a statement on Tuesday, December 9, in Abuja, Shehu said he felt it necessary to address the inaccurate reports suggesting that the commission had vehemently rejected President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reform legislation.
“I am here to categorically debunk this report as not only false but also malicious,” Shehu said.
He stated that RMAFC has been actively involved in the reform process and has prepared a detailed memorandum highlighting its stance, with a focus on aligning the proposed tax reforms with global best practices.
“Our stance aligns seamlessly with Mr. President’s vision for a more equitable and sustainable fiscal framework,” he added.
The bills have sparked heated discussions over the past few weeks, with the issue of Value Added Tax (VAT) allocation and derivation becoming a central point of debate.
Shehu expressed that his team fully supports President Tinubu’s determined efforts to revamp Nigeria’s revenue base through the ongoing reforms, as well as his bold actions to tackle the country’s fiscal challenges.
He acknowledged that the proposed tax reforms represent a crucial step toward tapping into previously unutilized revenue sources, improving Nigeria’s revenue-to-GDP ratio, and enhancing its position among nations with strong fiscal performance.
The RMAFC chairman also voiced concerns that, despite the commission’s unwavering backing for the tax reform initiative some citizens have chosen to peddle falsehoods for reasons best known to them.
“These inaccurate statements can undermine the ongoing efforts of patriotic Nigerians who are tirelessly working to support the President in achieving his vision for the country,” he said.
Accompanied by the commission’s national commissioners, Shehu urged the public to ignore what he called unfounded reports and focus only on official documents and statements.
He also appealed to the media to maintain the highest standards and ethics of their respected profession. Shehu called on all stakeholders to reject fake news and prioritize truth, accuracy, and fairness in addressing national matters.
“Once again, we reiterate our total support for the tax reform, which aligns with our goal of helping the President in his ongoing fiscal reforms. We acknowledge our responsibility to provide professional guidance whenever necessary and pledge to continue working tirelessly to support the President’s vision for a more prosperous Nigeria,” he stated.
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