Shettima: Tax Reforms Will Ease Burden, Not Impoverish Nigerians

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Wednesday in Abuja assured Nigerians that the government’s new tax reforms are designed to ease the burden on small businesses and low-income earners, rather than impoverish them.

Speaking on behalf of President Bola Tinubu at an interfaith breaking of fast for Ramadan and Lent at the State House, Shettima emphasized that the reforms aim to reduce poverty by eliminating multiple levies and charges.

Shettima addressed concerns raised by political opponents, urging government officials to educate the public about the benefits of the reforms. “The same people who are shouting hoarse that the tax reform is meant to pulverise the poor are far from the truth,” he said, stressing the need to mount “pulpits” and communicate directly with Nigerians.

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Highlighting economic gains under the administration, Shettima cited increases in foreign exchange reserves, streamlined exchange rates, and the removal of fuel subsidies that previously favored a few. He commended President Tinubu for tackling long-ignored economic issues, noting that three years into the administration, the economy has bounced back.

The Vice President called on members of the Federal Executive Council, the Central Bank governor, special advisers, senior special assistants, and heads of agencies and parastatals present at the event to actively share factual information about government achievements and counter misinformation from opposition parties.

Shettima concluded by reiterating the administration’s commitment to lifting Nigerians out of poverty while safeguarding their livelihoods, emphasizing that the tax reforms are part of broader policy measures to promote equitable economic development.