Presidency debunks claims of scrapping TETFund, NASENI, NITDA in tax reforms
By Kunle Sanni
The Presidency has dismissed claims that the proposed tax reform bills before the National Assembly will dissolve key government agencies, including the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
In a statement released Monday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the Presidency clarified that the bills aim to streamline tax administration to promote business growth and economic competitiveness, without adversely affecting any region or sector of the country.
“Contrary to the lies being peddled, the bills do not suggest that NASENI, TETFund, and NITDA will cease to exist in 2029 after their passage,” the statement read. “Changing an agency’s funding source does not equate to scrapping it.”
The reforms, part of President Bola Tinubu’s broader economic agenda, aim to simplify Nigeria’s tax system and address the challenges of multiple levies on businesses.
According to the statement, the proposed framework consolidates certain earmarked taxes imposed on companies into a single tax. This consolidated tax will continue to support agencies like NASENI, TETFund, and NITDA until 2030, giving them time to identify alternative funding sources.
“This approach provides the affected agencies with ample time to adapt, in line with constitutional provisions and international best practices,” Onanuga stated.
The Presidency also criticized what it described as “deliberate misinformation” by some political actors aimed at inciting public distrust and creating regional divisions.
It reassured Nigerians that the tax reforms are designed to enhance the quality of life across all regions and sectors, ensuring fairness and efficiency.
“The tax reform bills will not enrich Lagos or Rivers while impoverishing other parts of the country. Instead, they aim to establish a fairer, more efficient tax system that benefits all Nigerians,” Onanuga emphasized.
President Tinubu urged stakeholders, including governors, traditional rulers, civil society groups, and professional associations, to participate actively in the public hearings that will be organized by the National Assembly.
He stressed the importance of informed contributions over emotional rhetoric to ensure the reforms align with national development goals.
The Presidency reiterated its commitment to transparency and inclusivity throughout the tax reform process, encouraging Nigerians to engage constructively and avoid divisive narratives.
“What is never in doubt is the need to change outdated tax laws and administration systems that no longer support the growth and development we desire for our country,” the statement concluded.
