President Bola Tinubu has reiterated that tax reforms in Nigeria are essential and here to stay, while signaling his willingness to negotiate contentious aspects of the policy.
Speaking during his first presidential media chat, Tinubu also defended his decision to remove the fuel subsidy, emphasizing the necessity of difficult reforms for Nigeria’s economic future.
Addressing concerns about the tax policy, Tinubu said, “Tax reform is here to stay. Why do you want to know that today? Tax matters are subject to debates, reviews and negotiations until you reach concessions. That is what I am going to say about that. I don’t mind cutting edges.
“We cannot continue to do what we previously did in today’s economy. We cannot retool this economy with the same broken boat and I believe that I have that capacity that is why I went into the race. I am focused on what Nigeria needs and what I must do for Nigerians.
“It is not yet eldorado for everybody but the new dawn is here. I am convinced.”
Asked whether he would reduce the size of his cabinet to cut the cost of governance, Tinubu said: “I am not prepared to bring down the size of my cabinet. I saw the need when I put them together. You do not give somebody any assignment he or she cannot fulfill. The job description must be efficient and effective. Nigeria is a large country. If you are to entertain over 200 million people, calculate how many stewards you will need. Let us pay attention to efficiency. Efficiency and effectiveness are the hallmark behind the philoshopy of that cabinet and I am not ready to shrink a bit of it. All the ministers are adding value.”
Tinubu also commented on recent stampedes in Oyo, Anambra, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) that resulted in tragic losses. He called for better organization in future public distributions, expressing condolences to affected families while stressing the importance of discipline during such events.
