The Women Wing of the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) held a one-day National Women Conference in Jos, Plateau State, on January 16, 2025. Themed “The Position of the Nigerian Women on the Controversial Tax Reform Bills,” the event aimed to analyze the impact of the tax reform bills on northern women and advocate for informed decision-making.
The conference, held at Odilin’s Event Center, Nunku Street, Jos, brought together women leaders, activists, and stakeholders to examine the implications of the four proposed tax reform bills – Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill, all transmitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu in October 2024.
The National Director of Women’s Affairs for CNG, Nankling Pamela Nanle, emphasized the need to sensitize grassroots women about the bills. She highlighted concerns such as the VAT derivation formula, trust deficits in northern communities, and the need for direct consultation with key stakeholders, especially women, who dominate the informal sector in the region.
“We are not against the bills entirely,” Nanle stated. “However, there are gray areas that need clarity to ensure the common man, especially northern women who are petty traders, does not suffer disproportionately. If the bill is passed as it is, the northern region could be short-changed, harming our economy.”
The National Coordinator of CNG, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanch, called for more consultation and adherence to constitutional provisions requiring the involvement of all tiers of government. He also stressed the lack of reliable data on consumption patterns in northern states, which he argued could hinder effective implementation of the tax reforms.
“Don’t rush to pass the bill. Engage citizens at the grassroots for robust input,” he advised.
Hon. Caroline Panglang Dafur, Plateau State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Development, represented by Sunday Dumbil, urged women to engage in meaningful dialogue on the bills. She advocated for provisions to address unlawful and multiple taxation, which disproportionately impact northern women in small-scale businesses.
Hon. Barr. Olivia Dazyam, Acting Chairperson of the Gender and Equal Rights Commission, Plateau State, highlighted the bills’ potential benefits, such as harmonizing tax laws and reducing individual tax burdens. However, she raised concerns about revenue allocation disparities, infrastructure challenges at local levels, and the need for reforms to address critical issues like insecurity and gender-based violence in the North.
“The secret to empowered children is empowered mothers. These reforms, if well-implemented, could support women-led businesses and provide opportunities for growth,” she stated.
Barr Dazyam also recommended forming committees to break down the bills for better understanding and advocating for adjustments to address regional and gender-specific concerns.
Dr. Dagwom Dang of ANAN University, Kwall, Jos, delivered the keynote address, describing the tax reform bills as “pro-poor, pro-women, and pro-business.” He explained that the reforms aim to unify tax systems, reduce the tax burden on low-income earners, and foster economic growth.
However, Dr. Dang acknowledged concerns over equity in revenue distribution and the importance of proper implementation. “If these bills are implemented correctly, they could transform Nigeria’s business landscape and grow the GDP. But without effective execution, the intended benefits may not be realized,” he warned.
Participants identified critical issues, including:
– Lack of awareness about the bills at the grassroots.
– Challenges with multiple and illegal taxation.
– The need for equitable revenue distribution.
– Concerns over effective implementation and long-term benefits.
The conference concluded with a call for the National Assembly to ensure extensive consultation, especially with northern stakeholders, before passing the bills.