The National Orientation Agency, Ogun State Directorate has said that the Tax reform bills before the National assembly is introduced to lessen the burden on Nigerians while also proptecting the less privildge.
The Director General of NOA, Mr Lanre Issa Onilu, who spoke through the Ogun State Director of the Agency, Mrs Funke Salako while addressing the Press to kick-start the nationwide Sensitisation campaign, on HIV/AIDS, security awareness, shunning the get-rich-quick syndrome, human rights and tax reforms assures that the Tax bills are designed to ease the burden on hardworking Nigerians while ensuring everyone contributes fairly.
He said the tax reform bills before the national assembly are four different bills that seeks to bring everything about taxation and administration of tax in Nigeria under four different pieces of legislation.
According to him, the The bills are; the Nigeria Tax Bill, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill.
“By supporting this effort, we can create a tax system that works for all and funds the development projects that will improve our nation,” he said
Speaking on the Sensitisation Campaign, Issa Onilu said “Today, we are commencing a nationwide mobilization of Nigerians to unite in our commitment to addressing pressing issues and fostering a more informed, secure, and ethical society.
“The challenges before us require collective action and active participation from all Nigerians,” he said.
The DG said HIV/AIDS campaign which compliments the efforts being made by relevant health authorities coincides with the World HIV/AIDS Day which is marked every December 1.
“We join the global community within the week across the 36 states, the FCT and the 774 Local governments, in raising awareness,” he said.
He disclosed that the government has intensified efforts to provide free and accessible HIV testing and counseling services nationwide.
He noted that government also ensures antiretroviral treatment is available and accessible to people living with HIV/AIDS and partnering with local and international organizations to combat stigma and discrimination.
Speaking on security, the DG said security remains a top priority for the government.
He said efforts by the present administration to address insecurity include: “strengthening security architecture through better equipment, training, and increased funding for security agencies.
“Expanding policing initiatives to improve collaboration between citizens and law enforcement.
“Deploying technology, such as surveillance systems and intelligence gathering, to combat criminal activities.”
He said these efforts require the active support of citizens, who must report suspicious activities and cooperate with law enforcement agencies.
“We are urging citizens to be conscious of the fact that Security begins with you and I,” he said.
Speaking on get-rich-quick syndrome, Issa-Onilu said the government recognizes that the erosion of age long values and economic hardship often drives individuals toward unethical practices.
To address this, he said the current administration has implemented youth empowerment programs such as the National Social Investment Program (NSIP) and skill acquisition initiatives.
He said the Tinubu administration has also supported small and medium enterprises through grants and loans to promote entrepreneurship.
He noted that the government has also criminalized fraudulent practices, including internet fraud and financial crimes, with increased enforcement by agencies like the EFCC and ICPC.
“Citizens must reject shortcuts to wealth and embrace integrity, hard work, and the opportunities provided through government initiatives to make life better for citizens.
“In this Yuletide season, the tendency to resort to criminal ways to acquire ill gotten wealth so as to impress others is heightened,” he said.
