Information Minister calls for public trust as Nigeria embarks on critical tax reforms

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has emphasized the importance of public trust and open dialogue as Nigeria undertakes significant tax reforms designed to drive economic growth and fiscal sustainability.

Speaking at a national discourse organized by the Kaduna Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) on Saturday, Idris called for collaboration between the government, stakeholders, and citizens to ensure the success of the reforms.

The event, themed “Tax Reforms: The Role of Public Relations in Fostering Constructive Dialogue for National Economic Renaissance,” brought together professionals, policymakers, and academics to discuss the intersection of effective communication and fiscal policy.

Idris highlighted the pressing need to overhaul Nigeria’s tax administration system, describing it as outdated and riddled with inefficiencies. He linked the current state of tax structures to broader challenges in governance and economic development.

“All over the world, effective taxation is important as a source of financial power for governments to provide social services for their citizens,” Idris noted. “However, there is plenty of reason to believe and assert that Nigeria’s tax administration system has become long overdue for reform, on account of design and implementation flaws as well as the general attitudes of taxpayers toward taxation.”

He further pointed out that mistrust between taxpayers and the government has compounded the issue, undermining efforts to mobilize revenue effectively.

The minister praised the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reform for adopting a transparent and inclusive approach. He described the ongoing review of tax laws as a foundational step toward rebuilding trust and laying the groundwork for economic recovery.

“President Tinubu has also been very clear that the Executive will listen to and work with all stakeholders to ensure that all concerns are duly and comprehensively addressed,” Idris stated.

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Highlighting the collaborative spirit of the administration, he added: “We will continue to ensure open lines of communication and engagement with the National Assembly and all other stakeholders on these taxation bills. We are all in this together, as one people, one nation, and just as we are being called upon to make collective sacrifices, we will also collectively reap the abundant social and economic benefits of all of these necessary reforms.”

Idris stressed the pivotal role public relations practitioners play in fostering trust, shaping narratives, and promoting dialogue between the government and the public. He urged PR professionals to take the lead in communicating the goals and benefits of the tax reforms to dispel misinformation and build consensus.

“It is at times like this that we are reminded of the important roles of Public Relations in the maintenance of a functioning and healthy society,” Idris said. “By facilitating purposeful communication, building mutual understanding, and transparent promotion of ideas, Public Relations practice and practitioners can help create a culture of collaboration and progress.”

The minister also sought to reassure Nigerians of the government’s commitment to participatory democracy and equitable governance. He stressed that inclusivity, transparency, and accountability remain at the core of the administration’s approach to fiscal policy.

“Our reforms are not designed to burden Nigerians but to create a sustainable future where the government can adequately provide social services and infrastructure,” Idris said.

He urged citizens to view the tax reforms as a shared responsibility, noting: “The sacrifices we make today will pave the way for a stronger economy and better opportunities for future generations.”

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