The House of Representatives Committee on Finance has put forward a proposal to exempt military personnel in Nigeria from paying personal income tax.
This recommendation came as part of the committee’s review of four tax-related bills that President Bola Tinubu transmitted to the National Assembly in October 2024.
The move is aimed at recognizing the sacrifices of military officers who risk their lives in service to the nation.
Chairman of the Committee, Abiodun Faleke, made the disclosure on Thursday during a detailed clause-by-clause examination of the bills.
Addressing fellow lawmakers, Faleke emphasized the importance of providing financial relief to military personnel due to the demanding and high-risk nature of their duties.
He argued that removing their personal income tax obligation would be a way to appreciate their contributions to national security.
During the deliberations, Faleke stated, “Mr Speaker, honourable colleagues, the committee proposed that personal income of military personnel should be exempted from tax. This is because of the critical nature of their assignment.” His remarks highlighted the committee’s rationale, underscoring the essential role of the armed forces in maintaining national stability and security.
The proposal received unanimous support from lawmakers present at the session, signaling broad agreement on the need to ease the financial burden on military officers.
Members of the committee acknowledged that soldiers often face extreme conditions while protecting the country from internal and external threats, making the tax exemption a justified incentive.
With the committee’s approval, the next step is for the recommendation to be considered by the full House of Representatives before it can be adopted into law.
If enacted, the policy will mark a significant shift in Nigeria’s taxation system, providing much-needed relief to military personnel and reinforcing the government’s commitment to their welfare.
