Catholic Bishops Call For Awareness Before Full Tax Enforcement
Bishops Urge Gradual Enforcement of New Tax Laws
THE Catholic Bishops of Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province have called on the Federal Government to delay the full application of new tax laws until vulnerable Nigerians are adequately informed about the reforms. The call was made during their first 2026 meeting at the Jubilee Conference Centre (JCC), Ibadan, which held from 19 to 20 January.
The bishops, representing the dioceses of Ibadan, Ilorin, Ondo, Oyo, Ekiti, and Osogbo, expressed concern that misinformation had clouded public understanding of the reforms, leading to widespread apprehension.
“The ongoing tax reforms have generated controversies all over the country despite the authorities’ efforts to explain the merits and benefits for the poor and less privileged,” the bishops said in a communiqué released after the meeting.
They warned that agents of misinformation had been undermining the policy and urged authorities to provide adequate awareness, ensure fairness, and implement the reforms in a manner that allows citizens time to adjust.
Collaboration Needed to Curb Insecurity
The bishops also stressed the importance of coordinated action to address Nigeria’s growing insecurity. They urged federal, state, and local governments to work in unison in tackling banditry, kidnapping, insurgency, and other crimes.
“A few recent developments show that when governments demonstrate political will, insecurity can be curtailed,” the bishops noted. They called for sustained funding and proper equipping of security agencies, collaboration with internal and external partners, and continuous public education on safety measures.
The bishops emphasised that all Nigerians, regardless of religion, tribe, or status, must uphold the sanctity of life and property. They called for the equal application of the law as a key strategy in restoring peace and security across the country.
Commendation of Government Policies
In addition to security and taxation, the bishops praised the Federal Government for its recent achievements in education. They welcomed the resolution between the government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) after 16 years of disputes, highlighting the potential for a more stable academic environment.
The bishops also applauded presidential grants and loans aimed at Nigerian youths for university education, entrepreneurship, and skills development. They encouraged state and local governments to enhance educational facilities, improve staff welfare, and continuously evaluate programs to ensure tangible results.
A Call for Awareness and Collaboration
In conclusion, the bishops urged government authorities to humanise the tax reforms, ensure transparency and accountability, and collaborate effectively to tackle insecurity and empower Nigerian citizens. They highlighted the importance of public enlightenment and education as key factors in successful policy implementation.
