Catalysing Transformation: Revitalising trust in Nigeria’s governance and taxation landscape, by Ahmad Shuaibu Isa
Dr. Hassan Gimba’s incisive write-up (Why Nigerians no longer want to pay tax )examines the pressing issues surrounding governance and taxation in Nigeria, shedding light on the escalating distrust towards the government, particularly in the realm of tax collection and utilisation. His arguments resonate with the sentiments of countless Nigerians who find themselves burdened by exorbitant taxes without witnessing proportional advancements in infrastructure, services, or public welfare. By leveraging both historical and contemporary examples, Gimba illustrates the significant disconnect between leadership and the everyday citizen, painting a dismal picture of inefficiency, corruption, and mismanagement of public funds.
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Key Points in His Argument:
1. Eroding Faith in Leadership and Taxation: Gimba highlights a stark shift from the past when Nigerians were more inclined to pay taxes due to evident benefits—well-maintained roads, functional schools, accessible healthcare, and dependable infrastructure. Today, citizens feel their taxes are either misappropriated or ineffectively utilized, fostering a sense of exploitation. The prevalence of informal tax collection points in markets and motor parks exacerbates feelings of corruption, where funds are siphoned at various stages before reaching the intended authorities.
2. Neglect of Small Businesses: Gimba points out the punitive environment faced by small businesses in Nigeria. Instead of fostering growth and resilience within these enterprises, the government imposes taxes without providing essential support—such as infrastructure, security, or power. This leaves small business owners grappling with tax burdens before establishing a stable income, often leading to their demise, despite their significant contributions to the local economy.
3. Diminishing Public Services Amid Rising Taxes: Gimba notes the increasing costs associated with public services—like vehicle registration—yet lament inadequate service quality. As fees escalate, Nigerians find themselves receiving fewer services or subpar offerings, intensifying feelings of disillusionment and frustration among the populace.
4. Leadership and Governance Disparities: Gimba draws a compelling parallel between Nigeria and Indonesia’s governmental response to industry giants like Apple. While Indonesia successfully negotiated significant local investments, Nigeria often capitulates to the demands of foreign corporations, such as Starlink. This portrays a leadership that prioritizes appeasement over citizens’ welfare.
5. Exploitation by Foreign Entities: The instance of Starlink’s price increases, coupled with Nigerians’ exploitation, underscores a troubling lack of regulation and oversight in critical sectors. Gimba’s critique of the government’s inability to advocate for its citizens against foreign entities highlights broader leadership shortcomings.
Supportive Conclusion
Dr. Gimba articulates the frustrations of many Nigerians who perceive their government as increasingly detached from their needs. His critique identifies mismanaged tax revenues and a lack of development in essential areas—like infrastructure, education, and healthcare—that mirror the lived realities of countless citizens. The government’s failure to deliver even fundamental public goods, combined with heightened tax reliance without commensurate value, has engendered a profound sense of mistrust.
In light of Nigeria’s current economic and governance climate, Dr. Gimba’s insights are particularly pertinent, supporting the widespread notion that leadership must embrace greater accountability and transparency regarding public fund management. Citizens are fatigued by taxation without tangible benefits, and the government’s persistent neglect of their welfare leads to economic stagnation and disenchantment.
A transformative shift towards responsible governance—centered on effective utilization of tax revenues, support for local businesses, and accessible, efficient public services—could revitalize trust and foster a more willing, engaged taxpayer base. Without such reforms, Nigeria risks deepening economic disparities and increasing public apathy toward governance. Dr. Gimba’s impassioned call for leaders to embrace truth, transparency, and commitment to the welfare of their citizens is a crucial prescription for the nation’s future prosperity.
Ahmad Shuaibu Isa lives in Zaria, Nigeria, he is a writer and a student of International Studies Specialising in Defense and Strategic studies and can be reached via
ahmadeesir214@gmail.com
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