Nigerians urged to pay taxes before demanding government accountability
The National Orientation Agency has emphasised that Nigerians must fulfil their tax obligations to have the moral and legal right to demand accountability from the government. Mrs Abiodun Olayeni-Ali of the agency highlighted that many citizens do not pay taxes, with the burden mostly on civil servants and a few salaried workers. She explained that the agency is conducting nationwide sensitisation campaigns to educate people about new tax reforms and address misinformation. Concerns were raised by business owners and informal sector operators about the practical impact of these reforms on their livelihoods.
What we know
- Mrs Abiodun Olayeni-Ali stated that only tax-compliant citizens can legitimately question government spending.
- The National Orientation Agency is running public enlightenment campaigns across all 774 local government areas.
- Business owners and informal sector workers expressed worries about the feasibility and fairness of the new tax reforms.
- Mr Iniobong Usen said the new tax structure aims to reduce burdens on low-income earners and increase contributions from wealthier individuals.
- In June 2025, President Bola Tinubu signed four major tax reform bills into law, overhauling Nigeria's tax system.
