Stakeholders at the just-concluded one-day Annual National Dialogue of the NPO Reports have agreed on the need to expand the population of Nigerians who pay tax.
The stakeholers also concluded that without the support of the citizens, revenue generation and infrastructure development would remain a mirage for a long time.
Speakers at thd dialogue, the second edition which was held in Abuja during the week, brainstormed on the challenges of revenue generation amidst decaying infrastructure.
They lamented that while government needs huge revenues for infrastructure developments, the obstacles to revenue generation are daunting.
Prominent among speakers at the event held at Merit House, Maitama was the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji whose keynote addrress was presented by the director of intergovernmental relations, Dr. Umar Ahmed.
Adedeji called for improved tax administration and public-private synergies to increase Nigeria’s revenue generation.
Other speakers included Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo, who was reoresented by his Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo; chairman of the event and former Postmaster General of the Federation, Dr. Ismail Adebayo Adewusi; an associate professor at the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research, NISER, Ibadan, Dr. Hakeem Tijani; special adviser to the president on economic matters, Tope Fasua; executive director of Gender Action Initiative, Dr. Mufuliat Fijabi; the CEO of Upshot Media, Mojeed Jamiu, and others.
The keynote speaker Adedeji recommended that an improved tax administration will enhance tax collection efficiency, reduce corruption, and increase transparency.
While stressing on the pivotal roles the revenue generation and infrastructural development play in overcoming economic challenges, Adedeji also suggested public-private synergies through the establishment of clear frameworks for Public-Private Partnership (PPP).
“Revenue generation and infrastructural development are pivotal to overcoming the challenges of a constrained economy.
“By adopting the transparent, inclusive and efficient strategies, government can unlock economic potential, foster innovation and improve public services.
“Improve Tax Administration: Enhanced tax collection efficiency, reduce corruption, and increase transparency.
“Enhance Public-Private Synergies: Establish clear frameworks for PPPs and encourage innovative financing to attract private investment in Infrastructure,” he said.
The FIRS chairman also made further recommendations on curbing the nation’s economic constraints among which include, strengthening institutional framework, adoption of digital solutions, and prioritizing strategic projects amongst others.
“Governments should prioritize capacity-building for regulatory bodies to enhance governance and ensure effective policy ‘implementation.
“They should also adopt digital solutions as leveraging technology for revenue collection and infrastructure management can enhance transparency, reduce corruption, and increase efficiency.
“Prioritize Strategic Projects: Focus on high-impact projects that offer maximum economic and social returns, such as transportation, energy, and water supply.
“Foster Inclusivity: Engage stakeholders at all levels to ensure that development initiatives address the needs of all social groups,” Adedeji said.
In his opening address, Adewusi who was also a Commissioner for Finance under the administration of Governor Bola Tinubu in Lagos, called for balance between the ongoing economic reforms and social equity.
He explained that revenue generation and social equity are dependent of each other while calling for the subsidization of essential services, expansion of education and healthcare center, and investment in industrialisation.
“Revenue generation and social equity are two sides of the same coin; one cannot thrive without the other.
“As we push for reforms, we must ensure that revenue generation does not come at the expense of social equity.
“Subsidies should be targeted at essential services like electricity and transportation to shield low-income groups.
“Expanding access to education and healthcare, particularly in underserved regions, is critical for reducing inequality.
“Infrastructure investments must be inclusive, ensuring that rural and marginalized communities benefit alongside urban centers.” Adewusi said.
The former Postmaster General of the Federation lamented Nigeria’s over-reliance on the oil sector among other challenges which he warned threatened the country’s progress despite boasting of $477 billion GDP in 2023.
“Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, stands at a critical juncture. Despite a GDP of $477 billion in 2023 and immense natural resources, our nation grapples with significant challenges: an ove
