The Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has assured Nigerians that the upper legislative chamber will consider the Tax Reform Bills 2024 immediately after the Eid and Easter holidays.
Bamidele, who represents Ekiti Central, also reaffirmed that the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution remained a priority. He explained that the amendment process is aimed at creating a more efficient and responsive governance system that serves the interests of all Nigerians.
Speaking in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, during an empowerment programme, Bamidele highlighted various legislative efforts since the Senate’s inauguration on June 13, 2023. He noted that the Senate has been focused on stabilizing the economy through legal frameworks that enhance fiscal and monetary policies, strengthen security, address inflation, and promote effective governance structures.
He described the Tax Reform Bills as a game changer that would transform Nigeria’s fiscal environment. He explained that the proposed legislation would address economic inequality, encourage investment, and provide tax relief for low-income earners and small businesses. According to him, the reforms will also eliminate Value Added Tax (VAT) on essential goods and services such as food, education, healthcare, and transportation, ensuring economic relief for ordinary Nigerians.
Bamidele assured that the Senate will take into account all public concerns and pass the bills purely in the national interest. He noted that the House of Representatives had already passed the Tax Reform Bills 2024 and that the upper chamber would resolve all outstanding issues before final passage.
He also emphasized the Senate’s commitment to reviewing the 1999 Constitution to ensure a governance framework that fosters national unity and development. He said the process is designed to address key challenges and provide an efficient legal foundation for the country.
Highlighting other legislative initiatives, Bamidele cited the amendment of the National Social Investment Programme Agency Act, aimed at improving accountability and poverty alleviation efforts. He also referenced the recent passage of the Investments and Securities Act, which was signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to modernize Nigeria’s financial sector. Additionally, he mentioned the amendment of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, which now mandated social media platforms and bloggers to establish physical offices in Nigeria to enhance regulatory oversight and transparency.
During the event, which attracted dignitaries including Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, Deputy Governor, Chief Christianah Afuye, and Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Bamidele empowered over 5,000 constituents across five local government areas. Beneficiaries received support in agriculture, education, transportation, and small business development.
Governor Oyebanji commended Bamidele for his contributions, emphasizing that Ekiti State has benefited immensely from his representation at the federal level. He noted that the various projects and initiatives facilitated by Bamidele are clear evidence of his commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy.
