President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians to fulfil their tax obligations, stressing that sustainable development can only be achieved when citizens contribute their fair share to government revenue.
Speaking at the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda, the President said taxation remains the foundation upon which governments build infrastructure, provide public services, and secure the future of their nations. He noted that citizens cannot demand better roads, hospitals, schools, and other essential services without supporting government efforts through tax payments.
Tinubu stated that every responsible citizen has a duty to contribute to national development by paying taxes, describing tax compliance as a critical requirement for economic growth and long-term prosperity. He argued that governments around the world rely on tax revenue to fund development projects and improve the quality of life of their people.
The President defended his administration’s ongoing fiscal and economic reforms, saying difficult decisions were necessary to place Nigeria on a stronger economic footing. According to him, while some of the reforms may have caused temporary hardship, they were designed to create a more stable and prosperous future for the country.
Tinubu further emphasised that improved tax compliance would help the government reduce its dependence on borrowing and provide more resources for critical infrastructure and social services. He urged Nigerians to view taxation not as a burden but as a collective investment in the nation’s future.
The President’s remarks come as the Federal Government continues efforts to expand the tax base and implement reforms aimed at increasing revenue generation. The administration has repeatedly linked improved tax collection to its plans for infrastructure development, economic growth, and enhanced public service delivery.
