Northern Christian Youth Alliance Praises Pres.Tinubu’s Policies

The Northern Christian Youth Alliance (NCYA) has expressed support for President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, especially the removal of the petrol subsidy and the ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s tax system. The group described the measures as difficult but necessary decisions aimed at strengthening the nation’s finances and creating a more sustainable economy.

In a statement signed by Evangelist Benjamin Akoka on Tuesday, the alliance also commended the Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Zacch Adedeji, for his role in advancing the government’s tax reforms. The NCYA said the new tax approach seeks to increase compliance among wealthy individuals and major businesses while reducing unnecessary pressure on low-income earners and small enterprises.

Akoka said Adedeji had contributed significantly to efforts aimed at broadening Nigeria’s revenue base and improving tax collection.

The alliance also defended the removal of the petrol subsidy in May 2023. It said the policy was necessary to prevent further strain on government finances and redirect public funds towards more productive areas. According to the group, Adedeji has consistently explained the financial challenges created by the former subsidy arrangement.

“The decision to end the fuel subsidy was not a political gamble but a necessary intervention that saved Nigeria from deeper fiscal ruin,” Akoka said.

The NCYA also praised the emphasis on progressive taxation. It said the approach places greater responsibility on people and businesses with stronger financial capacity.

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The group noted that individuals earning up to ₦800,000 annually are exempt from personal income tax under the new framework. It also pointed to VAT relief on certain essential goods and services.

Akoka described the approach as a move towards greater fairness in the tax system.

The alliance said Adedeji’s public engagements had also helped explain the economic challenges inherited by the Tinubu administration.

These include problems within the subsidy system, foreign exchange market, oil industry and tax structure.

The NCYA cited improved revenue collection, increased allocations from the Federation Account and stronger external reserves among the developments it believes could signal progress. It also pointed to increased domestic refining capacity as another positive development for Nigeria’s energy sector.

The group said stronger government revenue could support investment in infrastructure, education, healthcare and other areas of human development. Such investments, it added, could improve opportunities for young Nigerians, including those living in the northern part of the country.

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The NCYA acknowledged that the reforms had created economic difficulties for many citizens in the short term. However, it argued that the government should focus on measures that can deliver sustainable growth over time.

Akoka urged the government to maintain transparency while implementing the policies and ensure that vulnerable communities receive adequate support.

The alliance further called on youth organisations, religious groups and civil society organisations to assess the reforms based on economic evidence rather than political sentiment. It said the ultimate goal should be an economy that encourages businesses to grow and allows more Nigerians to earn sustainable incomes.

The NCYA maintained that effective tax administration, reduced dependence on subsidies and stronger domestic production could help Nigeria become more financially resilient.

The group therefore urged the government to sustain the reforms while addressing the immediate hardship faced by citizens.

It described the economic direction under Tinubu and Adedeji’s work on revenue mobilisation as important steps towards building a stronger economy for future generations.

Source: Guardian News

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Content Credit: Esther Adeyemi

Image Credit: Google.com