The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has issued a powerful statement denouncing the proposed Tax Reform Bill introduced by the Tinubu administration. This bill, according to the NDYC, represents a stark departure from Nigeria’s foundational principles of equity, unity, and shared prosperity.
The NDYC highlights Nigeria’s history of shared development, pointing to an era when wealth from the groundnut pyramids of the North contributed to infrastructure development in the South, including ports and railroads. This collaborative approach ensured that every region shared in the nation’s progress. However, the proposed tax reforms threaten to dismantle this legacy by prioritizing industrialized regions at the expense of historically exploited areas, particularly the Niger Delta.
The Niger Delta has long been the economic engine of Nigeria, providing the oil wealth that drives the national economy. Despite this, the region continues to suffer from systemic poverty, environmental degradation, and underdevelopment. The NDYC argues that the proposed reforms would deepen these inequalities by centralizing tax administration and favoring industrialized states. Such a move undermines the principles of federalism and equitable resource distribution, further marginalizing the region.
One of the NDYC’s most pressing concerns is the opaque and rushed process through which the bill was drafted. Tax reforms of such magnitude require broad-based consultation with stakeholders, including state governments, civil society organizations, and representatives from marginalized communities. The lack of transparency in the bill’s introduction raises questions about its legitimacy and intent.
The NDYC criticizes the bill for failing to address the economic realities faced by ordinary Nigerians. While proponents claim the reforms aim to reduce tax burdens on low-income earners, the NDYC argues that the bill disproportionately benefits wealthy states and large corporations, leaving small businesses and struggling families to bear the brunt of Nigeria’s economic challenges.
The NDYC frames the Tax Reform Bill as more than just a fiscal issue—it is a test of Nigeria’s commitment to justice, unity, and fairness. The organization calls on the National Assembly to reject the bill in its current form and to champion reforms that promote inclusivity, regional equity, and shared prosperity.
The NDYC remains steadfast in its advocacy for policies that reflect the aspirations of all Nigerians. As the country navigates its path forward, the NDYC calls for a renewed commitment to a tax system that uplifts every region, honors the sacrifices of the Niger Delta, and revives the spirit of collective development that once defined Nigeria.