Kehinde Fajobi
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has endorsed the federal government’s tax reform, describing it as a necessary step for progress.
Speaking on Wednesday during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the Africa Investment Forum in Rabat, Morocco, he said Lagos is “extremely comfortable” with the initiative.
Sanwo-Olu acknowledged resistance to the reform but emphasised its importance for long-term benefits.
“What those uncomfortable with the tax reform are not willing to accept is that there is no way of making an omelette without breaking the egg,” he said.
The governor urged Nigerians to read the provisions carefully, dismissing claims that Lagos would benefit disproportionately.
“Comments like Lagos is going to be the major beneficiary are not true. Lagos is actually going to be shaped off in some places. But on a larger scale, we see it as a global thing for better governance,” he added.
Sanwo-Olu described the reform as a “wonderful initiative” that would encourage discipline and harder work across states.
He noted Nigeria’s low tax-to-GDP ratio and the need for aggressive reforms to unlock opportunities.
He said, “The intention is not to hurt anybody. This, I am very sure of. The intention is to better a lot, but not just one person or one set of people. It’s for all of us, and we should look at it this way.”
The governor revealed he had been engaging other governors and the Presidential Tax Reform Committee, chaired by Taiwo Oyedele, to ensure better public communication on the reform’s objectives.
“I still spoke with him yesterday to continue that level of engagement and let us populate the salient points.
“I think there have just been some misgivings due to a lack of understanding, but I think it’s a good thing,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He expressed optimism about the reform’s potential to create greater opportunities for states and non-governmental actors while positioning Lagos for a more significant role in governance.