Nyesom Wike urges Nigerians to pay taxes, emphasizing the government's need for revenue to support essential services and infrastructure projects. His remarks were made during the Abuja Business and Investment Summit.
Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), urged Nigerians to fulfill their tax responsibilities, highlighting that government revenue is crucial for providing essential services. His remarks came during the inaugural Abuja Business and Investment Summit in Abuja on Wednesday, organized by the Abuja Investment Company Limited.
The theme of the summit, “Optimising Investment Through Partnerships,” aligns with the Federal Government's strategy to enhance investment opportunities through collaboration with the private sector. Wike emphasized that the idea that the government does not need financial resources is misguided.
“People often believe that the government does not require funds, but that is simply not the case,” Wike explained. “Without adequate tax revenue, we cannot support the services and infrastructure that citizens depend on.”
He also addressed previous partnerships between the government and private investors that did not yield positive outcomes. Wike expressed concern over the continuous allocation of government resources without guaranteed returns. “If we invest public money and land without ensuring a return, we risk wasting taxpayer funds,” he noted.
Wike stressed the importance of taxes in enabling the government to fulfill its obligations while reassuring investors that creating a favorable business environment is a priority. He concluded by advocating for a collaborative approach that benefits both the government and investors, stating, “We must all work together for mutual success.”
