The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has voiced strong opposition to the Tax Reform Bill proposed by the Tinubu administration, warning that it threatens to deepen regional inequalities and undermine Nigeria’s unity.
The NDYC argues that the bill disproportionately favors industrialized states while neglecting historically marginalized regions like the Niger Delta. Despite being the source of the nation’s oil wealth for decades, the Niger Delta continues to suffer from poverty, environmental degradation, and underdevelopment. The proposed reforms, by centralizing tax administration, risk entrenching these injustices and violating the principles of federalism and equitable resource sharing.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s history, the NDYC recalls a time when wealth from northern groundnut pyramids was used to develop infrastructure across the country. This spirit of collective progress, they say, is being abandoned in favor of policies that serve a privileged few.
The NDYC is also concerned about the lack of consultation in the bill’s drafting process. Broad-based input from civil society, state governments, and marginalized communities is essential for tax reforms of this magnitude. The exclusion of these voices not only delegitimizes the bill but also raises questions about its intent.
In addition, the NDYC criticizes the bill for failing to address the economic struggles of everyday Nigerians. While it promises relief for low-income earners, the reality is that it primarily benefits wealthy states and large corporations, leaving small businesses and vulnerable families behind.
The NDYC calls on the National Assembly to reject the bill and advocate for tax policies that foster inclusivity, fairness, and regional equity. Only through such reforms can Nigeria achieve true prosperity and unity.