The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called on Nigerians to fulfill their tax obligations to increase government revenue for vital developmental programmes and social services.
Wike made this appeal during the inaugural Abuja Business and Investment Summit organized by the Abuja Investment Company Limited in the nation’s capital on Wednesday, October 16, 2024. He emphasized that the event’s theme, “Optimising Investment Through Partnerships,” aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to leveraging collaboration to enhance investment opportunities.
The former Rivers State Governor refuted claims that the government does not require funding, stating that such assertions are incorrect and misleading. He highlighted the importance of tax compliance for sustainable development and the implementation of social services.
Wike cited examples of failed partnerships between the government and the private sector, noting that investments and land allocations amounting to billions of naira would be discontinued if investors cannot guarantee returns. He remarked, “These are the kinds of things the government looks into and says how can I bring in the money and the land, and at the end of the day, the government will not make a dime?”
The minister further clarified, “When people say the government is not to make money, who told you that? If the government is not to make money, how do we have money to provide services? The government needs money.”