Nigerian President Bola Tinubu on Thursday submitted four executive bills to the National Assembly, targeting comprehensive tax reforms. One of the major proposals is renaming the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), which will be responsible for assessing, collecting, and accounting for federal revenues.

In a letter read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the bill titled “The Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill” aims to repeal the Federal Inland Revenue Service (Establishment) Act of 2007. The other bills include the Nigeria Tax Bill, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill, all aimed at creating a transparent and efficient fiscal regime.

President Tinubu emphasized that the reforms will enhance taxpayer compliance, strengthen fiscal institutions, and encourage investment, ultimately boosting Nigeria’s economic growth.
The letter, titled “Transmission of Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Bills to the National Assembly,” also included three other reform bills:

The Nigeria Tax Bill that aims to provide a consolidated fiscal framework for taxation in Nigeria.

The Nigeria Tax Administration Bill that seeks to establish a clear legal framework for fair and efficient tax administration, promoting ease of compliance, reducing disputes, and optimizing revenue collection.

The Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill which proposes the creation of a Joint Revenue Board, Tax Appeal Tribunal, and the Office of the Tax Ombudsman, all intended to harmonize revenue administration and resolve disputes.

President Tinubu reiterated the benefits of the proposed reforms, which aim to improve taxpayer compliance, strengthen fiscal institutions, and create a more transparent fiscal regime. 

According to the President, the proposed tax bill presents substantial benefits to  a library, government connectives and economic growth by enhancing tax payers compliance strengthening  fiscal institutions, and fostering a more effective and transparent fiscal regime.

“I am confident that the bill when passed, will encourage  investment,  boost consumer spending and stimulate Nigeria’s economic growth”, he stressed.

The Northern Senators Forum, under the leadership of Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’adua, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Her Excellency, Pastor Mrs. Patience Umo Eno, the wife of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno.

In a condolence message, Senator Yar’adua, on behalf of the forum, extended heartfelt sympathies to Governor Umo Eno and the entire people of Akwa Ibom State.
He acknowledged the late Pastor Patience Umo Eno’s remarkable contributions to the welfare of the underprivileged, especially through her Golden Initiative For All (GIFA) which had a lasting impact on the poor and vulnerable in the state.

“Her Excellency Pastor Patience Umo Eno was a beacon of compassion and a steadfast supporter of Governor Umo Eno. Her passing leaves a significant void, not just in her family, but among the many whose lives she touched,” the statement read.

The forum praised Pastor Umo Eno for her exemplary life of service, noting that she inspired countless individuals through her kindness, peaceful nature, and dedication to improving the lives of others.

As the state mourns her untimely death, Senator Yar’adua prayed for strength for Governor Umo Eno and his family during this difficult time and asked for God’s eternal rest for her soul.

The passing of Pastor Patience Umo Eno has been met with widespread tributes from across Nigeria, as her legacy of philanthropy and compassion continues to be remembered.

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has said that Nigeria has always valued the Association of Senate, Shoora and Equivalent of Councils in Africa and the Arab World (ASSECAA) as a pivotal platform for advancing parliamentary collaboration, just as it takes pride in having hosted the inaugural ASSECAA retreat in 2006.

Speaking at the 11th Annual Retreat of the ASSECAA in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, on Thursday, Akpabio restated the commitment of Nigeria to the alliance and believes strongly in the power of cooperation to drive development across Africa and the Arab world.
Special Assistant Media to the President of the Senate in a statement quoted Akpabio to have said,, ” Nigeria has always valued ASSECAA as a pivotal platform for advancing parliamentary collaboration. We take pride in having hosted the inaugural ASSECAA retreat in 2006 and have remained committed to this alliance, firmly believing in the power of cooperation to drive development across Africa and the Arab world.

Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Akpabio stated, “Nigeria continues to champion parliamentary diplomacy and intergovernmental cooperation. We recognize that unity and partnership across our regions are crucial in addressing the global challenges that confront us all.
“Our commitment is unwavering, and forums like this reinforce our shared vision for a prosperous and peaceful future.

“This year’s theme, ‘Strengthening the Joint Parliamentary Action of the Global South Countries to Face Environmental, Technological, and Development Challenges,’ is both timely and essential.
“As legislators, we bear the responsibility of crafting policies that will secure the future for generations to come. The crises we face—climate change, rapid technological advancements, and persistent development issues—necessitate not just individual national efforts but a collective strategy.

Speaking further, Senator Akpabio stressed that, “as we delve into these challenges, it is imperative to acknowledge the intertwined histories of Asia and Africa. Both continents, having faced colonial legacies, have shown remarkable resilience and cooperation. The struggles for independence and the pursuit of sustainable development have forged a bond between our peoples, reminding us that collaboration is not only possible but necessary.

“In Nigeria, we have embraced this spirit of cooperation as we confront our own developmental, technological, and environmental challenges. Our nation is rich in resources, yet we continue to grapple with issues such as poverty, inadequate infrastructure, and environmental degradation. The growing population and urbanization place tremendous pressure on our resources, demanding innovative solutions and collective action.

He noted that, “regarding environmental challenges, we in Africa and the Arab world are acutely aware of the urgency of addressing climate change. From rising sea levels in coastal cities to desertification in our arid regions, our ecosystems are under severe threat. I commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for Nigeria’s bold steps in green initiatives, including large-scale renewable energy projects. Yet, we know that meaningful progress lies in regional cooperation. Our united voices in the Global South must advocate for climate justice and the implementation of sustainable practices.

“In the realm of technological advancement, we face rapid shifts that present both immense opportunities and significant challenges. The digital economy promises substantial growth, but our policies must foster innovation while safeguarding the interests of all citizens. Equatorial Guinea’s strides in technological development are commendable and serve as a model for the region. We must work collaboratively to ensure these advancements benefit all sectors of society, especially the most vulnerable.

“Development challenges remain a critical focus. Addressing poverty, inequality, and underemployment requires innovative legislative solutions. In Nigeria, we are striving to create environments that promote infrastructure development, generate employment, and support small businesses.
“However, collaboration with regional partners is essential for greater impact. It is through forums like this that we can share best practices, align legislative efforts, and support each other in driving economic growth.”