President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has defended his administration’s tax reform policies, insisting that citizens must fulfil their tax obligations if the country is to achieve meaningful development amid current economic challenges.
Speaking at the ongoing Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda, the President said taxation remains a civic responsibility necessary for funding infrastructure, healthcare, education, and other public services.
Tinubu stated that many Nigerians demand better roads, hospitals, and social amenities but are often unwilling to contribute through taxes.
According to him, no government can effectively provide quality public services without adequate revenue generated from taxpayers. He stressed that taxation affects everyone, including the rich, middle class, and poor, but remains essential for national growth and economic stability.
The President further argued that responsible citizenship involves contributing to national development, adding that individuals or organisations who refuse to pay taxes without lawful exemption fail to support the country’s progress.
Tinubu also defended recent economic reforms introduced by his administration, including fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange market reforms, describing them as difficult but necessary decisions aimed at preventing economic collapse and restoring investor confidence.
He compared the hardship caused by the reforms to labour pains experienced during childbirth, saying temporary sacrifices would eventually produce long-term benefits for Nigerians and strengthen the nation’s economy.
The President noted that Nigeria, like many African nations, faces rising debt obligations and limited fiscal resources, making improved tax compliance crucial for sustainable development and reduced dependence on borrowing.
His comments come at a time when many Nigerians continue to grapple with inflation, rising food prices, increased electricity tariffs, and the effects of ongoing economic reforms introduced since 2023. Critics of the administration have argued that the policies have worsened the financial burden on citizens despite promises of long-term economic recovery.
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