The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has announced plans to translate proposed tax reform bills and other key national issues into 36 Nigerian languages. This effort aims to improve public understanding and foster greater engagement.
Speaking at a press conference in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Monday, the Director-General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, highlighted the agency’s commitment to raising awareness on issues such as tax reforms, security, the get-rich-quick syndrome, human rights, and HIV/AIDS.
Represented by the Director of Research and Statistics, Inuwa Yusuf Kobi, Issa-Onilu emphasized the importance of informed public discourse on the tax reform bills. “There have been numerous misconceptions about the tax reform bills, and it is disheartening that many critics lack knowledge of the details and the inherent benefits,” he stated.
To address this, NOA has partnered with religious and traditional leaders to dispel misunderstandings and communicate the benefits to their communities.
“Many of these leaders now understand that the issues have been politicized and recognize the reforms as beneficial, especially for the common people,” Issa-Onilu added.
The tax reform bills aim to simplify the tax system, addressing issues such as multiple taxation and providing exemptions for businesses with turnovers below ₦50 million.
“For instance, businesses with less than ₦50 million turnover will be exempt from the new tax law if passed. Additionally, about 90% of workers in the public and private sectors will no longer pay taxes, as taxation will be based on income levels,” he explained.
Issa-Onilu also called for collective action, urging all Nigerians to actively participate in building the nation. “The challenges before us require united efforts from everyone. This campaign also seeks to promote security consciousness and national development,” he said.
Michael Daniel Bdliya, NOA’s State Director in Borno, underscored the need for stakeholders to amplify the campaign’s message. “Building the Nigeria of our dreams requires collective responsibility. Every small action contributes to the greater good,” he said, commending the media for its role in reaching grassroots communities to ensure the success of NOA’s initiatives.
