Tax bills: Dogara’s contributions underscores north’s economic potential, says Musa Illallah

Musa Illallah, a public affairs analyst, says Yakubu Dogara’s take on President Bola Tinubu’s tax reform bills highlighted the economic potentials of the northern region.

Speaking on December 2 during Channels Television’s town hall on the bills, Dogara asked northerners not to condemn the pieces of legislation.

The former speaker of the house of representatives made a “compelling case” for the proposed tax reform bills and underlined the “untapped economic potentials of northern Nigeria”.

“Dogara’s remarks addressed key misconceptions surrounding the bills and underscored the economic opportunities available to the northern region,” Illalah said.

“In his first major public appearance since leaving office in 2023, Dogara debunked claims that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is anti-north.

“He emphasised the importance of the reforms, urging the northern population to focus on the economic opportunities they present rather than condemning the presidency.

“Dogara praised the president’s establishment of the ministry of livestock development, a move he called a game-changer for the north.

“The former speaker said ‘the global market size of dairies and beef is projected to reach $2.5 trillion in the next three years. If the north can corner just 5% of this market, that’s $125 billion — more than enough for the region to thrive without relying on VAT from any state’.

“He further urged northern leaders and citizens to organize and harness the region’s vast resources.

“Dogara’s statements were a bold affirmation of northern Nigeria’s potential, calling for visionary leadership to achieve these goals.”

Illallah added that the ex-speaker put paid to certain misconceptions about the north.

“Dogara criticized the perception that Tinubu’s administration is anti-north, citing several initiatives aimed at developing the region like the North West Development Commission, reconstruction of the Abuja-Kaduna expressway, launch of a 1,350MW gas-fired power plant in the federal capital territory, enhanced security measures, including the neutralisation of bandit and terrorist leaders and the $50 billion Pulako Initiative targeting banditry-affected northern states,” the pundit added.

“The former speaker also argued that they are necessary for Nigeria’s economic stability.

“He highlighted measures within the reforms designed to benefit low-income earners, such as the exemption of Nigerians earning below ₦1 million annually from Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) tax and the VAT exemption on essential items like transportation, rent, and food.

“These reforms will reduce the tax burden on everyday Nigerians, including those in the north. It’s essential to engage with the actual details of these bills rather than succumbing to misinformation.

“He acknowledged concerns about the rapid pace of the reforms but emphasized that the National Assembly remains the appropriate platform for debate and adjustments.

“The national assembly can hold joint public hearings to address issues raised by stakeholders. If there are better proposals, let them be presented for consideration.

“No piece of legislation is perfect. But we must avoid discarding critical reforms due to minor imperfections. The consultations should continue, but Nigeria stands to gain significantly from these tax reforms.”

Illallah said Dogara’s call for unity and informed debate highlights the critical need for collaborative efforts for the nation’s progress.