In an unprecedented move aimed at reducing multiple taxes at the state and local government levels, the Chairman of Presidential Tax and Fiscal Policy Reform, Taiwo Oyedele, has revealed plans to train area boys as tax officers. Oyedele believes that involving all stakeholders, including the area boys, will help avoid potential crises that could arise from suspending multiple taxes.
Speaking in an interview with Channels TV, Oyedele emphasized the importance of including everyone affected by these reforms. He acknowledged that disregarding the livelihoods, whether legitimate or not, of any individual could lead to unmanageable crises. Thus, he proposed the training of area boys and touts in tax collection, providing them with uniforms and decent salaries.
“We’re also thinking about how to bring all stakeholders on board because, at the end of the day, if you stop the livelihood of anyone, whether they are earning it legitimately or not, you can create crises that would be difficult to manage,” Oyedele stated. “But once you bring everybody in, maybe we need to train those area boys and touts, give them uniforms and then they’ll be the ones to ask you to show the evidence on your phone, right? And then they get paid a decent salary.”
This unique proposal aims to utilize the skills of area boys and touts who are often found on the streets and notorious for their involvement in various activities. By training them as tax officers, their hitherto underutilized potential can be harnessed, creating a win-win situation for both the government and the area boys themselves.
However, this novel approach is not without concerns. Critics argue that such a plan might legitimize the activities of area boys and touts, leading to further lawlessness. Additionally, questions arise about the necessary qualifications and training required for these individuals to effectively collect taxes.
Nevertheless, Oyedele’s suggestion highlights the need to find inclusive solutions that address the multitude of challenges faced in tax reforms. By engaging all stakeholders, the government aims to not only streamline the tax system but also create employment opportunities for marginalized groups.
As these plans move forward, it remains to be seen whether training area boys as tax officers will be a successful strategy. Nonetheless, it marks a significant step towards a more holistic approach to tax reform and social inclusion in Nigeria.
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