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President Bola Tinubu intensifies his efforts to pass controversial tax reform bills, including the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024, amid resistance from northern governors. Despite opposition, Tinubu remains determined, asserting the reforms are crucial for economic modernization, while southern lawmakers support the bills' progression through legislative debates.

According to Punch Newspaper, President Bola Tinubu has escalated efforts to push through the controversial tax reform bills by reaching out to northern political leaders, including individual consultations and back-channel discussions.

The bills, which include the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024 and others, were introduced in October 2024, but have faced strong opposition from northern governors who argue the proposed VAT distribution model could disadvantage their region. Despite the ongoing resistance, with governors insisting on withdrawing the bills for further consultations, President Tinubu remains firm, dismissing the opposition and asserting the necessity of the reforms to modernize the economy.

Several governors, including those from Bauchi, Kano, and Gombe states, have criticized the bills, with some warning that they could worsen the economic hardships in the north. On the other hand, Southern lawmakers argue that the bills should proceed, confident that any concerns can be addressed during legislative debates. The situation reflects a deepening political divide, with calls for broader consultations and bill adjustments

President Tinubu, responding to critics, emphasized his commitment to implementing these reforms despite the opposition, stating that the reforms are essential for the country's economic future. He also brushed off the opposition from some governors, asserting that the process would continue, despite the "noise" from critics.