NUJ FCT Chairperson to FG: Ensure Transparency, Effective Use of Tax Revenues

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has urged the Federal Government to prioritize transparency, accountability, and efficient use of tax revenues for infrastructure development under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing tax reforms.

She made the call during the inaugural Distinguished Parliamentarian Lecture organized by the House of Representatives Press Corps, themed “Navigating Tax Reforms in Nigeria: Insights on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Policies.” The lecture was delivered by former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the National Credit Guarantee Company Ltd., Yakubu Dogara.

Comrade Ike noted that the reforms represent bold steps toward modernizing Nigeria’s fiscal system, expanding the tax base, and reducing reliance on oil revenues.

“Tax reform is pivotal to Nigeria’s economic growth, fiscal sustainability, and social development. Under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, we are witnessing bold steps to strengthen our tax system,” she said.

She, however, stressed that the success of the reforms would depend on how effectively revenues are deployed to improve infrastructure and citizens’ welfare. She emphasized the need for clarity in policy communication so Nigerians can fully understand their rights and obligations.

According to her, “The media must provide accurate, unbiased information and foster public dialogue to build trust in these reforms. Transparency and accountability should guide every stage of implementation to protect the interests of all Nigerians.”

Comrade Ike further called for collaboration among all stakeholders—lawmakers, the executive, civil society, and the media—to ensure the reforms deliver meaningful outcomes. She commended Speaker of the 10th House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, for initiating the lecture series, describing it as a valuable platform for enriching public policy discourse.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Press Corps, Comrade Gboyega Onadiran, observed that taxation has become one of the most contentious issues in the country, citing debates around petroleum tax, data tax, and requirements such as the National Identification Number (NIN) for banking.

He explained that the Distinguished Parliamentarian Lecture was designed to bridge the gap between the legislature and the public by clarifying parliamentary activities and national issues. “As journalists—the mirror of society and agenda setters—we believe this forum offers a unique opportunity to simplify parliamentary activities for Nigerians,” he said.

Onadiran described the inaugural lecturer, Yakubu Dogara, as a statesman whose legislative experience and records make him well-placed to provide insights into tax reforms and governance.

Also speaking, Hon. Philip Nyiam, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, said the initiative marked a new chapter for the Press Corps, moving beyond routine reporting to playing a more active role in shaping national development.

“This is part of efforts to change the narrative where journalists are seen only as conveyors of press releases and statements. As watchdogs of society, we are also agenda setters and must enlighten the public on key national issues,” Nyiam said.

He added that the lecture aimed to demystify President Tinubu’s tax reform agenda, which has stirred debate since its introduction, and to situate it within the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Nyiam emphasized that selecting Dogara as the guest lecturer was deliberate, citing his courage, achievements, and experience as Speaker of the 8th House of Representatives. He expressed confidence that the lecture would contribute meaningfully to the discourse on governance and fiscal reforms.