Accuse Northern Leaders of Neglecting the Region’s Development
By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Christian leaders in northern Nigeria have expressed their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s tax reform initiative. They urged their followers to better understand its potential benefits for both the region and the country at large.
The resolution was made during a town hall meeting organized by the Christian Awareness Initiative of Nigeria (CHAIN) in Kaduna, themed “The Church and Society: Tax Reforms and Matters Arising.”
At the event, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, delivered a strong critique of northern leadership, accusing them of neglecting the region’s development despite decades of political dominance.
Dogara emphasized the importance of understanding the proposed tax reform, urging for honest discussions about the challenges facing the North.
“Our problem in the North is not about VAT allocations or political appointments,” Dogara stated. “The North has controlled the presidency for over 40 years, holding key positions in the Senate, House of Representatives, and NNPC, yet the region remains underdeveloped.”
He pointed out that much of the North’s allocated resources are mismanaged, noting that funds meant for hospitals, schools, and infrastructure often end up squandered or spent abroad.
“Instead of addressing our challenges, many of our leaders prioritize personal gain. If this continues, no amount of leadership or resources will change our circumstances,” Dogara warned.
He defended the tax reform as a crucial step toward economic growth, explaining that it aims to simplify Nigeria’s 11 existing tax laws into just two, making the system more investor-friendly.
“Every investor considers tax policies before committing funds. A simplified system will attract investments, create opportunities, and boost our economy,” he said.
Rev. Joseph John Hayab, CHAIN’s Executive Director, called on Christian leaders to embrace knowledge and guide their communities on important national issues such as tax reform.
