Chairman of Presidential Tax and Fiscal Policy Reform, Taiwo Oyedele, has said area boys can be trained for tax collection and paid decent salaries to forsake their old ways.
Gatekeepers News reports that in an exclusive interview on Channels Television, Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of Presidential Tax and Fiscal Policy Reform, discussed various aspects of tax reform and its expected impact.
Oyedele also emphasised the need for a streamlined tax system, addressing multiple taxes that burden citizens.
On Implementation Progress, Oyedele acknowledged the impatience of Nigerians awaiting the impact of tax reforms. He highlighted the complexities of fiscal policy matters, noting that the Emergency Economic Intervention Bill is a crucial instrument for implementing recommendations. While some recommendations are in progress, others await presentation to the National Assembly.
For the Implementation Timeline, Oyedele said that it’s challenging to provide a specific timeline, Oyedele outlined the steps involved, including internal processes, presentation to the Federal Executive Council, and subsequent submission to the National Assembly. He expressed hope for progress by the end of the first quarter, around March.
To alleviate the burden on citizens, the committee is engaging with governors to suspend nuisance taxes that yield minimal revenue but create significant challenges. Oyedele stressed the importance of simplifying the tax process, proposing a single tax at the local government level to enhance efficiency.
Oyedele explained that many levies and duties fail to reach state governments, emphasizing the benefits of the proposed reforms. The aim is to create a more transparent and effective system, enabling states to collect more revenue while citizens pay less. He suggested compensating states for suspending certain taxes, fostering cooperation.
In a unique approach, Oyedele proposed training area boys (informal street workers) as tax officers, offering decent salaries. This strategy aims to transform their roles, ensuring proper enforcement while providing them with valuable skills that could lead to alternative employment.
Recognizing the lengthy process of amending laws and the constitution, Oyedele stressed the need for immediate action. The committee plans to work on an MoU with states to suspend certain taxes while simultaneously pursuing legislative changes.
Overall, Oyedele’s insights shed light on the multifaceted approach to tax reform, encompassing legislative changes, stakeholder engagement, and innovative strategies to streamline the system for the benefit of both citizens and governments.
