“The Tax reform bill will cure a lot in Nigeria” — Bishop Kukah

The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Reverend Mathew Kukah, has thrown his weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s controversial tax reform bills, calling them a potential antidote to the nation’s elite-driven financial recklessness.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, Kukah painted a stark picture of Nigeria’s paradox: a nation brimming with talent and resources yet cr!ppled by “elite rascality” and systemic mismanagement.

The reforms, which have drawn fire from critics across the country—particularly in the northern region—are viewed by some as an excessive financial burden on everyday Nigerians.

However, Kukah sees an opportunity for transformation amid the controversy.

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Highlighting the irony of Nigerians living in abundance but struggling for survival, Kukah expressed cautious optimism about the reforms.

“This narrative of Nigerians living in a richly endowed country yet being spectators to the rascality of elites must end,” he said.

Kukah also emphasized the need for states to harness the nation’s “raw energy and vision” to avoid violent spillovers from untapped potential. According to him, fiscal reforms like these could lay the groundwork for creating competitive opportunities and sustainable development.

While admitting his limited initial knowledge about the bills, Kukah revealed he has started educating himself and urged Nigerians to do the same, framing the reforms as the “beginning of a long journey” toward fiscal efficiency and national growth.