President Bola Tinubu has sparked a wave of reactions after redefining what it means to be a Nigerian citizen during his speech at the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda. The president asserted that any Nigerian who does not pay tax and is not exempted cannot be considered a citizen, highlighting the critical role of taxation in nation-building.
Tinubu's Definition of Citizenship
Speaking on the sidelines of the forum, Tinubu emphasized that taxes are a priority for every citizen. He stated, "A citizen who pays taxes, whether corporate or individual, is a citizen. If you are not a taxpayer and not exempted, then you are not a citizen." This statement underscores his administration's focus on tax compliance since he took office in 2023.
Tax Reform Bill and Implementation
Tinubu has been vocal about tax payments throughout his presidency. His tax reform bill initially faced opposition from state governors but eventually reached a compromise. The bill became law and took effect in 2026, marking a significant shift in Nigeria's fiscal policy.
Public Reactions
The president's comments have generated mixed reactions from Nigerians, many of whom are grappling with economic hardship.
- Sadeeq criticized the president, saying, "Paying tax defines citizenship? Tinubu and his team clearly don’t know what they’re doing. How do you define citizenship by tax when millions are struggling to eat, with no jobs, no power, and an economy in free fall? You’re taxing poverty, not building a nation. This is clueless leadership."
- Emeka Ezeanya described the statement as satirical: "President Tinubu just redefined citizenship like it’s a subscription plan: 'Pay tax or you’re not a real Naija!'. Oga, with no power, high cost of fuel and bad roads, most citizens are already paying the highest tax, survival taxi. Abeg, deliver value first before collecting the 'citizen fee'."
- Clement highlighted economic challenges: "You tax citizens who have drained their economic prowess with your inordinate policies. You expect to tax people who you can't make have purchasing power. How can they be paying for what you are not giving them? Man is too poor upstairs abeg."
- Ishaqq noted the redefinition of citizenship: "So, citizenship is now on a subscription plan? If tax is the only entry ticket, then half the country just got 'guest access' to their own nation. By that logic, rights are no longer inherent; they’re premium features unlocked after payment confirmation. Interesting."
Gbajabiamila on Tinubu's Leadership
In related news, President Tinubu's chief of staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, revealed that he would have been sacked if he had not maintained a close relationship with the president. Gbajabiamila recalled how the role of Desmond Elliot, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, in the move to remove Speaker Mudashiru Obasa pitched him against Tinubu. He disclosed this while addressing APC stakeholders in Surulere on Thursday, May 14.
