President Bola Tinubu has decided to keep pushing forward with the proposed Tax Reform Bills in the National Assembly, despite the National Economic Council (NEC) suggesting a pause for more consultations. The bills are designed to simplify Nigeria’s tax system, reduce redundant taxes, and promote revenue efficiency across federal, state, and local governments. Tinubu has argued that the legislative process allows stakeholders to provide feedback and adjustments without requiring the bills to be withdrawn entirely, as recommended by the NEC.

The bills have stirred significant debate, especially from northern governors, who expressed concerns that the reforms could disadvantage less-industrialized states if VAT distributions were based on where goods are consumed rather than where companies are headquartered.