NEWS
SDGs: Nigeria, others Call for Inclusive Global Tax system
![](https://dailyasset.ng/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/se.jpg)
Nigeria and the African Group on Thursday called for an equitable and fair international tax system toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The representatives of the group made the call at a news conference on, “Promotion of Inclusive and Effective International Tax Cooperation at the United Nations,” in New York.
Nigeria had, during the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), presented a historic resolution, which laid the foundation for the creation of a new system of international tax cooperation that should be universal in scope and approach.
With this, member states agreed for the first time to have a convention on tax cooperation and to annually discuss global tax issues and review progress.
The motion, submitted for consideration by Nigeria on behalf of 54-member African Group of States, was adopted by consensus after some discussions on a failed amendment.
The envoys, however, expressed optimism that promotion of inclusive International Tax Cooperation remained a critical step in the attainment of the 2030 SDGs.
The Chair of the African Group, Amb. Chola Milambo, said the resolution was a step toward a future where sustainable development, encompassing economic growth and environmental stewardship, wwnt hand-in-hand.
“In essence, this Convention is about humanising our approach to global economics. It’s about creating a system that serves not just economies but the people at their core.
“It represents a commitment to a future where every nation, regardless of its economic stature, can thrive.
“On behalf of the African Group, I appeal for collaborative effort and consensus in realising this Convention.
“Together, we can forge a global tax system that is truly representative, fair and effective, benefiting every nation and every citizen,” he said.
Milambo, who is the Permanent Representative to the Republic of Zambia to the UN, said the Group had taken a significant step forward with the proposal of a Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation.
“This Framework Convention is not merely a policy document; it is a beacon of hope for developing countries that have long sought a voice in the shaping of international tax norms.
“It addresses the critical shortcomings of the current system, which often sidelines the unique challenges and perspectives of developing nations.
“Our proposal acknowledges the contributions of existing bodies like the OECD and the UN Tax Committee, while also recognising their limitations in fully representing the interests of all nations, particularly those in the developing world,” he said.
According to him, the convention’s primary goal is to ensure that all countries, regardless of their size or economic power, have an equal seat at the table in setting the agenda for international tax cooperation.
“This is a step toward rectifying the historical imbalance in global tax governance, offering a more equitable platform for dialogue and decision-making.
“By establishing a more equitable tax system, we unlock greater potential for spending in critical sectors like healthcare and education, pivotal for Africa and the Global South,” he said.
The envoy said the increased revenue generated would enable countries allocate resources where they were most needed, supporting sustainable growth and development.
He said the approach was encompassed under the umbrella of ‘sustainable development,’ ensuring that initiatives directly contributed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reflecting shared commitment to a future where holistic progress and well-being were accessible to all.
“The human aspect of this Convention cannot be overstated. By reforming the international financial systems and ensuring fair taxation, we can significantly reduce the strain on international aid.
“More revenue for the Global South translates to less dependence on Overseas Development Assistance (ODA), fostering a more self-reliant and resilient world economy.
“To our partners in the OECD, the EU, the US and the UK, I appeal to your understanding of our shared humanity.
“This Convention is not just a fiscal tool; it is a lifeline to millions who aspire for better healthcare, education and a life of dignity. Your support is crucial in turning this vision into a reality,” the envoy said.
Similarly, Permanent Representative of Eritrea to the UN, Amb. Sophia Tesfamariam, said adopting the resolution would create an avenue for providing resources to finance the SDGs.
According to her, political will is needed to finance the SDGs.
“We need the political will to finance our SDGs and we’re confident that the many groups, especially in the Global South and our friends from the global north will see the value in having comprehensive tax supports.
“It is very important that the revenues that came from our countries, from our own resources, from our own development is what creates development on the ground.
“ODA is great, but what we do on the ground for our people with our resources is what translates into basic standards of living food security, water, education and health,” she said.
Tesfamariam said the African Group had gathered the support of various groups on the resolution, citing G77 and China.
“I think we would do more than advocacy, for lack of a better word. I think we can get what we want,” she said. (NAN)
NEWS
Ajuri, Tinubu’s Spokesperson Takes Exit, Cites Mesical Reaaona
![](https://dailyasset.ng/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Ajuri-Ngelale-Special-Adviser-Media.jpg)
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President Chief Ajuri Ngelale has quit his job. He said in a statement in a Abuja that he would proceed on an ” indefinite leave, to deal with ” medical matters” affecting him amd hia immediate family.Hos statement reads: “On Friday, I submittd a memo to the Chief of Staff to the President informing my office that I am proceeding on an indefinite leave of absence to frontally deal with medical matters presently affecting my immediate, nuclear family.
While I fully appreciate that the ship of state waits for no man, this agonizing decision — entailing a pause of my functions as the Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity and Official Spokesperson of the President; Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action, and Chairman, Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen — was taken after significant consultations with my family over the past several days as a vexatious medical situation has worsened at home.I look forward to returning to full-time national service when time, healing, and fate permit.I respectfully ask for some privacy for my family and family”NEWS
Fuel Crisis: 1000 CSOs Fault Tinubu’s Economic Team, Want Immediate Reconstitution
![](https://dailyasset.ng/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/fuel-scarcity.jpg)
By David Torough, Abuja
About 1000 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), under the auspices of Coalition Of Civil Society Organisations (CCSOs), on Saturday Faults President Bola Tinubu’s Economic Team and called for immediate reconstitution.Expressing deep concerns over the state of the economy and escalating fuel prices compounding the hardship of Nigerians despite the recent protest, the groups said Tinubu must act now to avert disintegration.
The groups said the current situation across the country has cast doubt on the competence of the Tinubu economic team and called for urgent review. The CCSOs in a statement by its National Coordinator, Mallam Ibrahim Mohammed, pointed out that the plight of Nigerians is sinking low and their patience is wearing off following the deteriorating economy.The statement reads in part, “The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) is deeply concerned about the deteriorating state of the Nigerian economy, which is becoming increasingly unbearable for millions of citizens.“It is evident that the recent hike in fuel prices and the unstable exchange rate are the direct results of economic mismanagement by those responsible for overseeing our nation’s financial policies. The ripple effects of these failures are being felt in every household across the country, worsening poverty and crippling economic activity.“The floating of the Naira, which was initially sold to Nigerians as a means of stabilizing our currency, has done little to prevent the continued devaluation of the Naira. In fact, the exchange rate disparity has widened significantly, with the Naira losing value daily, impacting the cost of living, basic commodities, and inflation.“While this policy was expected to ease foreign exchange pressure, it has instead deepened economic challenges due to poor implementation and lack of strategic foresight.”The coalition also expressed concern over what it described as a death trap of indebtedness of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), which also they claimed had slowed down importation of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, hence the current shortage of PMS across the country. “Of equal concern is the precarious position of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), which finds itself in a debt trap, with global suppliers of petroleum products losing confidence in Nigeria’s ability to honour its obligations.“Reports have shown that NNPCL has accrued debts totalling over $6 billion, causing petrol supply shortages. International suppliers are now reluctant to continue providing fuel on credit, exacerbating supply chain issues and pushing up the price of petrol at the pump”, they claimed.The CSOs also asserted that, “We hold the managers of the Nigerian economy responsible for these disturbing developments. Their inability to provide sound policies and long-term solutions has left the nation in this predicament.“It is clear that there is no cohesive strategy to address the rising debt, the growing imbalance in the foreign exchange market, or the country’s heavy reliance on importation for petrol supply. The recent hike in fuel prices reflects the collapse of responsible economic management and accountability.“Nigerians are left to bear the brunt of these failures. Businesses are shutting down, transportation costs have skyrocketed, and citizens are spending an increasingly larger percentage of their income on basic necessities. This state of affairs is unacceptable.”The group therefore placed some demands; Immediate intervention from the government: There needs to be a comprehensive and transparent plan to stabilize the Naira, restore confidence in the petroleum supply chain, and negotiate a restructuring of NNPC’s debts to ensure continuous fuel supply.“Accountability for economic mismanagement: Those responsible for the reckless management of our foreign exchange policies and NNPC’s debts must be held accountable. The government must also disclose its plan to mitigate the rising fuel costs and economic burden on Nigerians.“A return to sound financial policy: The floating of the Naira has proven ineffective under current conditions. We call for a re-evaluation of monetary and fiscal policies to stabilize the economy, reduce inflation, and attract foreign investment.“In conclusion, the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations reiterates that without immediate corrective measures, the economic situation will continue to deteriorate, leading to further hardship for the average Nigerian. The government must act decisively and responsibly to reverse this downward spiral”, they added.NEWS
Tension in Makurdi Community as NAF Personnel Demolishes Houses, Destroys Rice Farm
![](https://dailyasset.ng/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Demolished-Building-Ghana.jpg)
There is growing tension in Ugondu community, Makurdi LGA, Benue state by young people opposed to the demolition of houses and destruction of rice farms in the area allegedly on the directives of senior Air Force officer, Air Commodore Akinbuwa Ayodele.
It was learnt that Commodore Ayodele, who is facing multiple legal actions following dispute over a plot of land located on George Akume Way Makurdi and owned in blatant disregard to the judicial process embarked on destruction of structures on the plot.
Eyewitness said when the equipment arrived no one imagined it was for destruction.
But in a militray- like operation, two flats of two units each, completely roofed, electrified and plumbing work completed were among the structures demolished as the bulldozers rolled over rice farms in the vicinity as well.
It was learnt that last year, a Makurdi High Court presided by Justice Mary Ijohor, granted an order of perpetual injunction, in the same matter, upon application by the supposed owner of the plot and awarded the sum of One Million Naira (N1,000,000.00) only, as cost. The matter, enforcement of fundamental rights, was marked as MHC/582/M/2023.
Godwin Akor whose rice farm was destroyed in a chat with newsmen said that he was shocked at the development. He however said he won’t speak more on the matter as it is still before the court.