Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu Explains Key Goals of Nigeria’s Tax Reform Bills

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has outlined the primary objectives of Nigeria’s tax reform bills, emphasizing their potential to boost the country’s revenue profile while supporting both local and international investments.

Kalu made the remarks during a meeting at the UK-Nigeria Strategic Dialogue, where he met with the Deputy Leader of the House of Lords and UK Minister of African Affairs, Lord Collins of Highbury, on Wednesday in London.

Aimed at Modernizing Nigeria’s Tax Laws

According to Kalu, Nigeria’s existing tax laws have become outdated and are in need of modernization. “Our tax laws have been obsolete,” he said. “What we are trying to do now is to streamline them in line with global best practices.” The Deputy Speaker explained that the primary goal is to increase national revenue while making tax systems more predictable and transparent for investors, eliminating issues like multiple taxation on the same matters.

Kalu also stressed that the reforms are designed to make Nigeria a more attractive investment destination, calling on the UK business community and the global market to increase their investment ratios in the country.

Legislative Agenda Focuses on Security and Social Reforms

During the meeting, Kalu highlighted the 10th House of Representatives’ legislative agenda, which includes a focus on national security, law reforms, economic growth, and social development.

One key priority is the promotion of greater women’s participation in politics, with plans to create special seats to boost the representation of women in Nigeria’s National and State Houses of Assembly. The House is also advocating for local government reforms to enhance autonomy and improve service delivery at the grassroots level.

Tackling Security Issues and Strengthening Governance

Kalu also addressed the need for state policing to tackle localized security challenges in Nigeria, while advocating for strengthened human rights protections. This includes enhancing oversight of the police and security services to ensure compliance with international human rights standards.

Additionally, the Deputy Speaker voiced support for reforms aimed at improving the judiciary’s capacity to perform more efficiently, ensuring better governance and accountability.