By Niyi Jacobs
The ongoing debate over Nigeria’s Tax Reform Bill has taken a new turn with the confirmation of a statement made earlier by a prominent figure in the discussion.
The individual had asserted that the Dangote Group of Companies was the largest single contributor to Nigeria’s Value Added Tax (VAT) pool, surpassing even telecom giant MTN. Initially, this claim drew sharp criticism, especially from some Southern Nigerians, who questioned its accuracy and perceived an underlying agenda.
However, recent empirical data has confirmed the assertion, showing that Dangote’s collective business operations indeed contribute more to VAT than MTN. This revelation has prompted calls for reconciliation, with some urging those who attacked the statement to reconsider their positions.
The person who originally made the claim expressed hope that those who criticized them now acknowledge the facts and apologize. “We have a country to run,” the individual said, emphasizing that it was crucial for Nigerians to stop viewing each other through the lens of North and South.
In light of the confirmed data, the individual also urged that the focus of the tax reform debate should shift from regionalism and personal attacks to finding solutions that benefit the entire nation.
“For President Tinubu to succeed, it is essential that we do not ethnicize this issue,” they added. “There is a win-win solution, and we must focus on achieving that.”
This latest development underscores the need for unity and national cohesion as Nigeria tackles complex economic challenges. As the tax reform debate continues, it remains crucial that all stakeholders prioritize the country’s progress over regional or ethnic divides
