South-South Governors have finally declared their stand on Tinubu’s Tax Reform.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the governors of the South-South have thrown their weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s tax reform bill.
They, however, urged the President to extend the proposed VAT-sharing percentages to other areas of derivation such as oil and gas.
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The governors stated this on Tuesday when they met in Yenagoa under the aegis of the South South Governors Forum to discuss pressing issues and strategies vital for the unity and development of the region.
In a communique issued at the end of the meeting read by Governor Douye who is also the new chairman of the forum, the governors expressed gratitude to Mr. President for supporting Senator Goodwill Akpabio’s emergene as Senate President.
The communique read in part: “We the Governors representing the States that form the South-South of Nigeria, are committed to collaborative governance, ensuring the well-being of our people, and advancing sustainable development.
“The forum also resolved to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Mr. President, His Excellency, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his steadfast support and commitment that led to the emergence of our esteemed son, His Excellency, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON, as President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Commend Mr. President for the award and commencement of the Coastal Road project and appeal that work should also begin from the Calabar axis. This strategic infrastructure will not only enhance connectivity but also stimulate economic development in the region.
“The forum thank Mr. President for the on-going work on the East-West Road. The Forum emphasised the need to expedite action towards completion. This will facilitate movement within the Region, noting that it is the major road that links the South-South States.
“Request the Federal Government to urge relevant Stakeholders/Agencies to extend the remediation of polluted environment on-going in Ogoni land to other impacted communities in the region.
“Call on the Federal Government to activate the railway line in Port Harcourt and connect other states in the region.
“Support Mr. President’s Tax Reform Bill. The Forum further urge Mr. President to extend the proposed VAT sharing percentages to other areas of derivation such as Oil and Gas.
“Forge a collaborative path forward amongst States, emphasising the importance of unity in our collective efforts to achieve shared goals.”
The forum also called for the establishment of a robust, structured regional security network, aimed at enhancing safety and security in the South-South adding “such a network will be instrumental in fostering a stable environment conducive to economic growth and prosperity.
“Encourage member states to broaden their economic horizons by diversifying beyond oil and gas and reinvigorate the BRACED Commission, to better represent the interests and aspirations of communities in our region.
“We reaffirm our dedication to the ideals of unity, progress, and collaborative governance. The challenges we face as a region are daunting, but our commitment to overcoming them through collective action, strategic partnerships, and inclusive policies remains unwavering.”
The meeting hosted by the Bayelsa Governor had in attendance Pastor Umo Eno, Governor of Akwa Ibom State; Senator Prince Bassey Otu, Governor of Cross Rivers State; R.t. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State; Sir. Siminalayi Fubara, Governor of Rivers State while Senator Monday Okpebholo, Governor of Edo State was absent.
