NSCIA CALLS FOR DE-ESCALATION OF TENSION GENERATED BY PROPOSED TAX REFORM 06-12-24
By Sadiq Aminu The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs NSCIA has urged the government and political actors to defuse unnecessary tensions over the tax reform bills and focus on fostering trust through genuine dialogue.
This was contained in a communiqué signed by Professor Salisu Shehu, Deputy Secretary-General of NSCIA following the 10th meeting of NSCIA’s Expanded General Purpose Committee held in Abuja.
The meeting, presided over by the President-General of NSCIA and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, brought together prominent Muslim leaders, government officials, and stakeholders from across Nigeria to deliberate on issues affecting the nation and the Muslim Ummah.
It commended efforts in reducing communal clashes but expressed concern over the economic hardships facing Nigerians, calling for policies to promote business growth and alleviate citizens’ suffering.
The Council also emphasized the need for youth empowerment, standardized contributions of the informal sector, and greater efforts to address illegal mining activities linked to the out-of-school children crisis.
Additionally, it called for the revocation of a private airstrip license issued to a religious leader, labeling it a potential threat to national security.
The NSCIA also renewed its commitment to resolving the discrimination against Muslim marriage certificates and reaffirmed the sole authority of the Centre for Islamic Studies at Usmanu Danfodiyo University in organizing Qur’anic recitation competitions.
It proposed appointing additional Imams for the National Mosque to enhance its capacity and urged governments to prioritize food security and education.
The Council concluded with prayers for national progress and expressed appreciation to attendees, particularly federal ministers and the National Security Adviser, for providing critical insights into government initiatives.