By Nkechi Eze
The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has hailed the recent signing of the Tax Reforms Law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as a bold and compassionate move that will bring meaningful relief to millions of Nigerian citizens, especially women and children.
In a signed official statement released on Friday by her Special Adviser on Media & Publicity, Jonathan Eze, the Minister applauded the decision as a landmark policy shift that aligns economic reforms with social equity. She said the reforms were not merely about fiscal policy adjustments but a demonstration of the President’s commitment to the well-being of every Nigerian.
“This reform is not just a legislative change; it represents a profound understanding of the challenges our citizens face,” the Minister stated. “By making tax policies more equitable, we are ensuring that every Nigerian has a fair chance at financial stability.”
According to the Minister, the removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) on essential female hygiene and child care products such as sanitary towels and baby diapers is a long-awaited response to grassroots advocacy and the day-to-day struggles of millions of women.
“Today, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs proudly salutes a profound and people-centred decision that will transform the everyday reality of millions,” she said.
“I 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.”
The Minister further described the law as a social justice intervention, asserting that it reflects a renewed national priority on issues often considered peripheral in mainstream economic policy.
“This legislative milestone is far more than a fiscal adjustment; it is a social justice intervention. By removing 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,” she added.
“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.”
The Minister emphasized that the law, which seeks to simplify Nigeria’s tax structure, reduce rates for lower-income earners, and attract job-generating investments, sets a new standard for participatory economic governance.
She also called on Nigerians to embrace the reforms positively and support the government’s broader economic recovery and social inclusion agenda.
“As implementation begins, this reform should be seen not just as a triumph of economic planning but as a model for people-first governance. It is my hope that stakeholders across all levels will engage constructively to ensure its full impact is felt where it matters most, in homes, classrooms, clinics, and markets across the country,” she said.
Hajiya Sulaiman-Ibrahim’s commendation joins a growing chorus of support from policymakers, civil society groups, and advocacy organisations who have long campaigned for pro-poor fiscal reforms.
The Tax Reforms Law, widely described as a flagship initiative of the Tinubu administration’s economic agenda, is expected to contribute to a more just, resilient, and inclusive economy, with benefits reaching the most vulnerable demographics.
