By Peter Jatau, Abuja, Nigeria
The National Youth Assembly, under the leadership of the Committee Chairman Hon. Olamijuwonlo Alao Akala—who represents Ogbomoso North, South, and Oriire (Oyo State) Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives—met at the National Assembly Conference Hall to review and debate ongoing tax reform bills.
During the gathering, the youth participants voiced both support and criticism of the proposed legislation, which has already passed from first to second reading and is currently at the public hearing stage. They welcomed the opportunity to analyze how these tax reforms could affect young Nigerians, who constitute over 60% of the country’s population.
In his remarks, Hon. Muktar Tolani Shagaya highlighted the benefits embedded in the reform bills, emphasizing that they could stimulate economic growth and provide avenues for youth empowerment. Expanding on these points, Hon. Alao Akala explained how certain provisions in the legislation offer exemptions for large segments of the youth demographic. He underscored the importance of government-led development initiatives, stating that, once enacted, these reforms would help create a more conducive environment for young people to thrive.
“The future is brighter with the tax reform bills when they come into force,” Hon. Alao Akala told NASS Independent Publishers. “Our country shall become better when the system allows the input of her citizens to thrive. The youth are the future leaders of this country, and they deserve the opportunity to contribute to national growth at every level.”
The meeting concluded with a positive outlook on the proposed tax reforms, as the youth participants and attending lawmakers urged state governments, parastatals, and corporate bodies to expand opportunities for young Nigerians. By doing so, they believe the nation’s future workforce can prosper under the framework these bills will establish.
