National Assembly Publishes Transmitted Tax Bills, Reviews Gazetting Procedures

The leadership of the National Assembly has taken steps to address rising public concerns over alleged inconsistencies between its Votes and Proceedings and the gazetted versions of recently enacted Tax Acts.

To enhance transparency, the Assembly has directed the Clerk to make public the transmitted Tax Bills that were duly signed by the President, including their certificate pages. This, according to a statement issued by the Director of Information to the Clerk of the National Assembly, Mr. Bullah Audu Bi-Allah, will allow members of the public to independently review the documents and confirm their authenticity.
The statement noted that despite heightened public interest, only a few individuals have formally requested Certified True Copies (CTCs) of the harmonised Bills. It added that all such applications have been fully processed. Members of the public seeking CTCs were advised to apply through the Office of the Clerk of the National Assembly, clearly indicating the Bills required and paying the stipulated fees.
The Assembly further disclosed that the Clerk is working closely with the Federal Government Printing Press to ensure the publication of the duly certified and assented Acts in accordance with legal provisions.
It explained that while the Clerk initiates the gazetting process, the responsibility for printing and publication rests with the Federal Government Printing Press, adding that the official Gazettes are expected to be released soon.
To avoid similar controversies in the future, the National Assembly announced a review of its procedures relating to the transmission and gazetting of Bills. It stated that henceforth, all Bills forwarded for presidential assent will pass through Presidential Liaison Officers, while the Printing Press will only process gazetting requests initiated by the Clerk of the National Assembly or an authorised representative.
The Assembly expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their vigilance and constructive engagement, stressing that sustained public interest remains essential to promoting transparency, accountability and professionalism in the legislative process.