By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Expand the tax net to capture more payers, Senate President Ahmad Lawan has urged the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), which wants to boost the treasury to ensure economic growth.
“We should rather expand the tax net. Let’s not over burden our businesses or our citizens,” Lawan advocated in Abuja.
He made the point as the guest speaker at the inauguration of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on the Audit and Recovery of back years Stamp Duties and FIRS’ formal launching of adhesive Stamp for Stamp Duties collection in Nigeria.
He said many people who are supposed to pay tax are not captured in the tax net, therefore, “let’s expand the tax net and ensure that we have in the net many more Nigerians who are supposed to pay taxes, and you have our support at all times.”
Lawan disclosed that the Senate is aware of the challenges against the efforts of the FIRS to restructure tax administration especially now in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.
He described as impressive the recent result posted by the FIRS in the first quarter, which he said is an indication that the FIRS leadership is doing a good job.
“Indeed, this is an indication that agencies of government, if given the necessary all round support and collaboration, will be able to deliver excellent results.
“We will continue to acknowledge, encourage and support the initiatives and efforts of revenue generating agencies of government to improve their revenue collection, especially in these trying times,” he added.
Lawan pledged that the National Assembly will continue to provide legislative backing and oversight functions that will help maximise federal revenue and ensure the government is better positioned to deliver on its mandate.
