By Gloria Abutu
The Federal Government is intensifying efforts to address Nigeria’s most pressing challenges through transformative reforms, with the proposed Tax Reform Bill positioned to steer the country toward sustainable development.
Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa Onilu, highlighted this during a press briefing in Yola, the Adamawa State capital.
He outlined the far-reaching benefits of the proposed Tax Reform Bill, emphasizing its potential to eliminate double taxation, support low-income earners, and enhance transparency for the benefit of all citizens.
“The Tax Reform Bill is a transformative step toward eliminating double taxation, supporting low-income earners, and enhancing transparency. It is designed to make taxes more impactful for citizens and drive our country’s development,” Mallam Onilu said.
The briefing, which also tackled critical issues such as HIV awareness, security, human rights, and the harmful “get-rich-quick” mentality, underscored the importance of collective action in fostering equitable growth and ethical values.
Represented by the Director of Special Duties, Mr. David Akoji, Mallam Onilu called for unity among Nigerians to address these concerns.
He noted, “This mobilization is not just about sensitization; it is a call to unite Nigerians in addressing critical issues and fostering a more informed, secure, and ethical society.”
On security, he reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing insecurity. “Security remains a top priority for this administration. Efforts to address insecurity include strengthening security architecture with better equipment, training, and increased funding for security agencies,” he explained.
He also urged citizens to reject shortcuts to wealth, particularly during the festive season. “As we approach the yuletide season, we urge Nigerians to reject shortcuts to wealth. Embrace integrity, hard work, and the opportunities provided through government initiatives to build a better life,” he added.
Mallam Onilu also emphasized the importance of HIV/AIDS awareness. “Citizen must utilize the HIV/AIDS services available, adopt responsible health practices, and offer support to individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Citizens have a big role to play in halting the spread of HIV/AIDS,” he said.
The Director-General reaffirmed the government’s dedication to human rights and tackling societal vices. “The government remains committed to protecting the dignity of every Nigerian by addressing human rights violations, including gender-based violence and child trafficking,” he stated.
Earlier, the Acting Director of the NOA in Adamawa State, Mr. Richard Bala Dangari, stressed the importance of value reorientation as a cornerstone for national development. “Value reorientation is necessary for any nation to experience growth and advancement. No nation can rise above the capacity of its people. Therefore, for us to get it right in our quest for development, we must get it right at the level of the citizenry” he said.
He further explained that the campaign would be carried out across all 21 local government areas of Adamawa State, beginning Tuesday, 10th December 2024.
He called on the media to support the initiative. “We call on the media to give us the necessary cooperation by amplifying these vital messages for the benefits of all and sundry,” Mr. Dangari urged.
The NOA emphasised that tackling the five critical areas—Tax Reform, Security, HIV/AIDS, Human Rights, and Get-Rich-Quick Syndrome—requires collaboration from all stakeholders and institutions, urging Nigerians to join hands in building a healthier, safer, and more ethical society.
