Gabriel Achudu
The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has categorically denied reports alleging that it rejected President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proposed tax reform Bill.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, RMAFC Chairman, Mohammed Bello Shehu, described a recent report published by a national newspaper as “not only false but also malicious.”
Bello said he was compelled to address the grossly misleading reports circulating in the media, alleging that the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) ‘vehemently rejected’ President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proposed tax reform Bill.
He emphasised that the RMAFC has been actively engaged in the reform process, drafting a comprehensive memorandum outlining its position, which expresses adherence to global best practices.
“Our stance aligns seamlessly with Mr. President’s vision for a more equitable and sustainable fiscal framework,” Shehu noted.
The RMAFC Chairman applauded President Tinubu’s strong commitment to repositioning Nigeria’s revenue base and his bold initiatives to address the country’s fiscal challenges.
“The proposed tax reform bills are a significant step towards integrating untapped revenue sources, enhancing Nigeria’s revenue-to-GDP ratio, and positioning the country favourably among nations with high fiscal performance,” Shehu said.
Shehu urged the public to disregard baseless reports, just as he appealed to the media to uphold the sacred standards and ethics of their noble profession.
“Let us collectively eschew misleading information and instead, seek truth, accuracy, and fairness in all our reporting,” Shehu said.
The RMAFC Chairman reiterated the Commission’s total support for the tax reform, which aligns with its goal of helping the President in his ongoing fiscal reforms.
“We acknowledge our responsibility to provide professional guidance whenever necessary and pledge to continue working tirelessly to support the President’s vision for a more prosperous Nigeria,” Shehu said.
The RMAFC’s clarification comes amidst intense debates on the proposed tax reform Bill, with the contentious issue of Value Added Tax (VAT) allocation and derivation taking center stage.
