Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate leader, has disclosed that the Senate is looking into all issues of public concern relating to the Tax Reform Bills, 2024, assuring Nigerians that the upper chamber will consider the bills immediately after Eid and Easter holidays.
Bamidele, representing Ekiti Central, has equally revealed that the review of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) is still on course, saying the process will lead to a more efficient and responsive governance system when concluded.
Speaking in Ado Ekiti during an empowerment programme, Bamidele reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to addressing public concerns on the bills.
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He described them as “game changers” that would transform Nigeria’s fiscal environment by eliminating tax burdens for low-income earners and exempting small businesses from taxation.
“The House of Representatives has successfully passed the Tax Reform Bills 2024. When we resume plenary, the Senate will resolve all areas of concern and pass the bills purely in the national interest,” he stated.
Bamidele also highlighted ongoing efforts to amend the 1999 Constitution to create “a more efficient and responsive governance system” and boost foreign direct investment.
He noted that the Senate had passed critical legislation, including amendments to the National Social Investment Programme Act and the Nigeria Data Protection Act, aimed at strengthening institutions, enhancing digital regulations, and promoting economic growth.
“The Senate will continue to provide the legal and regulatory environment that will incentivise foreign direct investments. We are convinced that this initiative will not only positively impact our foreign exchange earnings, but also stabilise the macro-economic landscape.
“The initiative will, no doubt, boost the country’s revenue generation; improve the living conditions of the people and increase the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), Bamidele assured constituents and Nigerians at large.
He added that the efforts were exemplified in the amendment of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (Establishment) Act, 2024 “to establish an effective and accountable structure for service delivery, and adequate coordination among relevant agencies of government.
“The Act now guarantees the sustainability of the NSIP as a valuable tool for poverty alleviation in Nigeria. We have provided necessary legislative frameworks and strengthened public institutions with capacities to deepen social equity and promote economic growth.
“The frameworks are also designed to foster environmental sustainability; encourage greater access to qualitative health care; discourage social dislocation; eliminate terrorism and insecurity and reduce the gap betweens the haves and the have-nots.
“In December 2024, the Senate passed the Investments and Securities (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill, 2024. The bill, recently signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was reviewed to enhance the competitiveness of Nigeria’s securities market, address modern financial practices, and regulate digital currencies and fintech companies.
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“The Senate also amended the Nigeria Data Protection Act (Amendment) Act, 2023, to mandate social media platforms and bloggers to establish physical offices in Nigeria.
“The amendment further aims at promoting accountability and transparency within the digital media space. This reflects our efforts to enhance Nigeria’s economic, educational, and digital regulatory frameworks,” Bamidele further said.
The lawmaker used the occasion to empower 5,000 constituents with tractors, motorcycles, tricycles, sewing machines, grants, and educational materials.
Biodun Oyebanji, Ekiti State governor, praised Bamidele’s contributions, stating that the state was benefiting from President Bola Tinubu’s decision to have him serve at the federal level.
“Senator Bamidele is delivering the dividends of democracy on behalf of Mr. President,” Oyebanji said.
