Hon. Akinlayo Backs Tax Reform, Advocates Economic Revamp and Grassroots Development
By Comfort Chukwukelue
Hon. Davidson Kolawole Akinlayo, a member of the House of Representatives, has reaffirmed his commitment to tax reform, economic development, and grassroots empowerment in his constituency. The lawmaker emphasized the need for a fairer and more efficient tax system, as well as ongoing projects in education, small business support, and infrastructure renewal to improve the lives of Nigerians.
Speaking at the National Assembly Complex, Hon. Akinlayo voiced strong support for the tax reform bill, which seeks to consolidate multiple tax collection agencies into a single revenue body. He argued that decentralizing tax collection would reduce the burden on Lagos, spread economic opportunities across other states, and boost government revenue.
“Currently, Lagos bears the brunt of tax collection, as most corporate headquarters are located there,” he explained. “If taxation is decentralized, businesses can thrive in other states, creating jobs and spreading economic growth.”
He also addressed concerns about the proposed VAT increase, clarifying that the bill does not impose an immediate tax hike but rather a gradual adjustment over several years.
“Many Nigerians misunderstand the bill, assuming it will impose an immediate increase in VAT,” he said. “However, the proposal is structured for phased increments—perhaps moving from 7.5% to 12.5% in five years, and then 15% in another five years. Even at its peak, Nigeria’s VAT rate will remain lower than those of many neighboring countries.”
The legislator further emphasized that tax consolidation aims to eliminate multiple taxation, reducing bureaucratic hurdles for businesses. Under the current system, he explained, importers must make separate payments to customs, port authorities, and other agencies—an inefficiency that the reform seeks to
Beyond taxation, Hon. Akinlayo highlighted his contributions toward reconstructing schools, providing financial assistance to small businesses, and supporting widows in his constituency.
“As part of our efforts to give back to society, we are rehabilitating schools and ensuring students receive quality education at no cost,” he stated. “We have also provided startup capital to small business owners and supported widows in the area to help them sustain their businesses.”
Additionally, the lawmaker emphasized the need to deepen democracy at the grassroots, ensuring that governance reaches the most vulnerable populations. He urged the government to continue policies that strengthen democratic institutions and encourage public participation.
Hon. Akinlayo also disclosed that a bill for the establishment of a Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery in his constituency has successfully passed its third reading and is awaiting concurrence before being sent to the President for assent. He stressed that the institution would not only provide quality healthcare education but also create jobs and enhance medical services in the region.
“In our region, we do not have a federal institution of higher learning focused on healthcare, and we took it upon ourselves to change that,” he said. “This institution will bring a strong federal presence, train skilled healthcare professionals, and generate employment for our people.”
Addressing his constituents, Hon.Akinlayo urged patience with the federal government’s economic policies, assuring them that the administration is working towards long-term stability.
“The economy we inherited was in poor shape, but efforts are being made to revamp it,” he said. “Our goal is to rebuild, and while it takes time, the reforms will ultimately benefit all Nigerians.”
He called for collective support to ensure the success of tax reforms and economic policies, reiterating that the restructuring of revenue collection will enhance national development and create a fairer tax system.
As discussions on the tax reform bill continue, Hon. Akinlayo reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that legislative decisions prioritize the well-being of the Nigerian people.
