NUJ FCT Chair urges transparency in Tinubu’s tax reforms

The Chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Grace Ike, has called for greater transparency and accountability in the implementation of President Bola Tinubu’s tax reforms, insisting that revenues must translate into tangible improvements in infrastructure and citizens’ welfare.

Speaking on Tuesday at the maiden Distinguished Parliamentarian Lecture organised by the House of Representatives Press Corps in Abuja, Ike noted that taxation has become one of the most hotly debated issues in Nigeria, often clouded by conflicting narratives.

The lecture, themed “Navigating Tax Reforms in Nigeria: Insights on President Bola Tinubu’s Policies,” featured former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, as the inaugural guest lecturer.

Ike described the administration’s reforms as bold efforts to modernise Nigeria’s tax system, broaden the tax base, and reduce overreliance on oil revenue. She stressed, however, that public trust and compliance can only be achieved when citizens see real results.

“As journalists—the mirror of society and agenda setters—we believe this forum provides a unique opportunity to unpack the grey areas of taxation and simplify parliamentary activities for Nigerians,” she said.

She emphasised the media’s responsibility in ensuring the success of the reforms through accurate, unbiased reporting and by fostering public dialogue. Clear communication, she argued, would help citizens better understand both their rights and responsibilities under the new tax framework.

Highlighting the significance of the lecture, Ike said it was designed to give parliamentarians, past and present, a platform to provide clarity on topical national issues through the legislative lens. She described the legislature as “the most misunderstood arm of government” and expressed confidence that Dogara’s insights would enrich national debate on tax reform and development.

Ike commended Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, for supporting the initiative and acknowledged Hon. Akin Rotimi, Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, for his role in bringing it to fruition.

She also recognised the contributions of institutional partners, including the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Nigeria LNG (NLNG), and Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC).

Calling for stronger collaboration among lawmakers, the executive, civil society, and the media, Ike concluded: “Our collective goal must be a Nigeria with a robust economy, where tax policies contribute to sustainable development and improved quality of life for every citizen.”