Women Affairs minister commends President Tinubu on signing tax reforms bill into law

PRESS RELEASE

[OFFICIAL STATEMENT BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF WOMEN AFFAIRS, HON. IMAAN SULAIMAN-IBRAHIM, fsi, COMMENDING PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR, ON THE SIGNING OF THE TAX REFORM BILL INTO LAW]

In the quiet resilience of Nigerian women in markets and homes, on farms and factory floors; lies a daily struggle to provide, to nurture, and to preserve dignity. It is within these lived experiences that true leadership must speak, not only through promises but through actions that touch lives directly. Today, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs proudly salutes a profound and people-centred decision that will transform the everyday reality of millions.

We extend heartfelt commendation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for signing into law the Tax Reform Bill; a bold, compassionate, and visionary step that demonstrates his administration’s unwavering commitment to inclusive governance and the well-being of all Nigerians, especially women, children, and families.

Advertisement

This legislative milestone is far more than a fiscal adjustment; it is a social justice intervention. By removing Value Added Tax (VAT) on essential female-related and child care items such as sanitary towels and baby diapers, the President has responded to the long-standing cries of mothers, caregivers, and advocates who have tirelessly called for the prioritisation of basic dignity in economic policy.

For women in low-income households, this reform delivers direct and immediate relief. It lifts an often invisible burden from the shoulders of those who are forced to make difficult choices every day; between menstrual hygiene and school attendance, between clean diapers and household sustenance. In eliminating these inequities, Mr. President has brought government closer to the grassroots and reaffirmed the humanity at the core of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Furthermore, this action advances Nigeria’s obligations under key national and international commitments to gender equality, the protection of vulnerable populations, and the Sustainable Development Goals. It is a policy rooted not only in economic reform but in empathy, inclusion, and the understanding that the strength of a nation lies in how it treats its women and children.

The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs will continue to work collaboratively with the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms to ensure that gender-responsive fiscal strategies remain an integral part of Nigeria’s economic transformation. We are committed to ensuring that this reform reaches the last mile and benefits the women, children, and families.

On behalf of Nigerian women and families across all regions, I express our deepest gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for this historic and humane reform. It is a timely reminder that governance can be both strategic and sensitive, and that when leadership listens, dignity is restored, and lives are uplifted. Thank you Mr. President.

Signed
Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, fsi
Honourable Minister of Women Affairs
Thursday, 27th June, 2025