By Ayo Onikoyi

Musa Ilallah has made a refreshing case for Yakubu Dogara’s insights  on the tax reform bill in view of the economic potential of the North.

The former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara,  made a compelling case for the proposed tax reform bills and highlighted the untapped economic potential of Northern Nigeria during a Channels Television town hall session. Dogara’s statements addressed key misconceptions surrounding the bills and underscored the economic opportunities available to the region.

In his first major public appearance since leaving office in 2023, Dogara debunked claims that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is anti-North. He emphasized the importance of the reforms, urging the Northern population to focus on the economic opportunities they present rather than condemning the presidency.

Dogara praised the president’s establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development, a move he called a game-changer for the North. “The global market size of dairies and beef is projected to reach $2.5 trillion in the next three years. If the North can corner just 5% of this market, that’s $125 billion — more than enough for the region to thrive without relying on VAT from any state,” Dogara said.

He further urged Northern leaders and citizens to organize and harness the region’s vast resources. Dogara’s statements were seen as a bold affirmation of Northern Nigeria’s potential, calling for visionary leadership to achieve these goals.

Addressing Misconceptions

Dogara criticized the perception that Tinubu’s administration is anti-North, citing several initiatives aimed at developing the region. These include:

The creation of the North West Development Commission.

Reconstruction efforts on the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway.

The launch of a 1,350MW gas-fired power plant in the Federal Capital Territory.

Enhanced security measures, including the neutralization of bandit and terrorist leaders and the $50 billion Pulako Initiative targeting banditry-affected Northern states.

The ongoing construction of the 1,068km Sokoto-Badagry Expressway and Kano-Maradi Standard Gauge Rail projects.

Upgrades to Maiduguri Airport to international status, with an operational start date in January 2025.

Dogara noted that these developments reflect the president’s commitment to Northern Nigeria’s progress, dismissing claims of regional bias as “false and misleading.”

Tax Reforms for Economic Growth

The former Speaker also defended the tax reform bills, arguing that they are necessary for Nigeria’s economic stability. He highlighted measures within the reforms designed to benefit low-income earners, such as the exemption of Nigerians earning below ₦1 million annually from Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) tax and the VAT exemption on essential items like transportation, rent, and food.

“These reforms will reduce the tax burden on everyday Nigerians, including those in the North. It’s essential to engage with the actual details of these bills rather than succumbing to misinformation,” Dogara said.

He acknowledged concerns about the rapid pace of the reforms but emphasized that the National Assembly remains the appropriate platform for debate and adjustments. “The National Assembly can hold joint public hearings to address issues raised by stakeholders. If there are better proposals, let them be presented for consideration,” he added.

A Call for Unity and Progress

Dogara urged Northern leaders to contribute constructively to the discussion rather than opposing the reforms outright. He cited his experience with the North East Development Commission Bill as an example of how urgent legislative measures can yield positive outcomes.

“No piece of legislation is perfect,” he admitted. “But we must avoid discarding critical reforms due to minor imperfections. The consultations should continue, but Nigeria stands to gain significantly from these tax reforms.”

Dogara’s remarks have reignited discussions about Northern Nigeria’s potential and the broader implications of Tinubu’s reforms. His call for unity and informed debate highlights the critical need for collaborative efforts to ensure the nation’s progress.