Nigeria’s Tax Reform: Easing the Burden on the Taxpayer and Tax Collector

In an ever-evolving economic landscape, Nigeria stands at a critical juncture, poised to reform its tax system to address the longstanding challenges faced by both taxpayers and tax collectors. The burden of taxation has weighed heavily on individuals and businesses for years, often accompanied by inefficiencies in revenue collection that hinder the government’s ability to provide essential services. However, with a renewed commitment to tax reform exemplified by initiatives like the newly established Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Committee, Nigeria is embarking on a transformative journey aimed at not only lightening the load on its taxpayers but also streamlining the processes for tax collection. This paradigm shift signifies an important moment in the nation’s fiscal history, promising improved equity, transparency, and efficiency in the tax system, ultimately fostering economic growth and development for the benefit of all stakeholders. Therefore, the objective of this article is to examine reforms that can alleviate the challenges faced by both tax collectors and taxpayers.

Analysis of the Debt Profile of Nigerian States

Analysis into the domestic debt profile of the 36 states and FCT shows that Lagos state with total debt of N444.23 billion has the highest domestic debt stock outstanding among the states and this represents 10.82% of the total domestic debt stock. Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt in combined have total debt worth 19.92% of the total domestic debt stock of the 36 states and the FCT. Of the top 10 states based on debt, only Lagos, Ogun, Rivers, Akwa-Ibom and Delta states are among the top 10 states based on 2019 Internally IGR.

2019 States IGR Report: States are not Taxing the Informal Sector Enough

65% of the total revenue of the 36 states and the FCT in 2019 came from FAAC while the remaining 35% came from IGR of the states. From the IGR, over 60% came from the formal sector (PAYE) while 20% came from the informal sector (Other Taxes and Direct Assessment).

More Than 90% of the 774 Local Government in Nigeria Exist to Only Pay Salaries

There have been different views on the activities of the 774 local government in Nigeria as the need to cut down expenditure arises while ensuring growth among all areas of the country. This article therefore seeks to provide empirical answers to the activities of local government in Nigeria based on their finances.

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