Catholic Bishops Urge FG to Make Tax Reforms People-Focused

Catholic bishops in the Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province have called on the Federal Government to implement current tax reforms with fairness, transparency, and compassion, warning that policies lacking a human-centred approach could worsen the hardship faced by millions of Nigerians.

The appeal was contained in a communiqué issued on Tuesday at the conclusion of the bishops’ first provincial meeting for 2026, held at the Jubilee Conference Centre in Ibadan, Oyo State. The communiqué was signed by the provincial chairman, Most Rev. Gabriel Abegunrin, and the secretary, Most Rev. John Oyejola.

The bishops noted that the tax reforms, introduced by the administration of President Bola Tinubu, were signed into law in June 2025 and came into effect on January 1, 2026. While acknowledging the government’s efforts to reform the tax system, they observed that the measures have generated widespread concern and uncertainty across the country, particularly among poor and vulnerable citizens.

In the communiqué titled “Sustaining Hope and Strengthening Our Good Efforts,” the bishops urged Nigerians to remain patient but stressed that such patience must be accompanied by clear accountability from government and tax authorities.

Beyond taxation, the Catholic leaders reflected on Nigeria’s broader socio-economic challenges, calling on governments at all levels to refocus on their core responsibilities, including securing lives and property, improving healthcare delivery, upgrading infrastructure, and creating an environment conducive to economic growth.

They expressed deep concern over the prolonged strike by health workers, describing it as unacceptable and harmful to ordinary Nigerians, as it continues to limit access to essential healthcare services. They warned that failure to address the situation urgently could lead to avoidable suffering and loss of lives.

The bishops also criticised the poor state of major road networks, especially those linking key cities in the South-West, and faulted some federal and state ministries for underperformance despite ongoing reform efforts.

Reaffirming the Church’s commitment to social justice, the bishops encouraged Nigerians not to lose hope, urging them to combine prayer with responsible citizenship, diligence, and respect for justice and the rule of law.

They emphasised that economic reforms must be guided by fairness, transparency, and accountability, calling on the government to give the tax reforms a human face by allowing vulnerable citizens time to adjust before enforcing strict compliance.

The bishops cautioned that economic policies implemented without sensitivity could deepen inequality and heighten social tension, stressing that taxation should not further burden citizens already struggling with inflation, unemployment, and the rising cost of living.