TJ&GP Applauds Bichi LG Chairman for Endorsing Tax-For-Service Charter of Demand
By Mustapha Salisu
The Tax Justice and Governance Platform (TJ&GP), Kano Chapter, has commended the Chairman of Bichi Local Government Area, Hon. Hamza Sule Mai Fata Bichi, for signing the Tax-For-Service Charter of Demand Agreement aimed at improving the revenue system within the Council.
The Programme Lead of Tax Justice, Sadiq Muhammad Mustapha, conveyed the commendation while leading a delegation on a courtesy visit to the Chairman’s office at the Bichi Local Government Secretariat.
According to Sadiq, the citizens of Bichi LGA are evidently benefiting from the dividends of democracy, as seen in both human capital and infrastructural development across the area.
He emphasized the existence of a social contract between the government and the people, stating, “Citizens are expected to pay taxes as a civic obligation, and in return, the government is duty-bound to provide developmental services.”
Sadiq also disclosed that following a recent TJ&GP training on the Tax-for-Service model, which involved key stakeholders including Bichi Market representatives, the participants developed a Charter of Demand. The charter includes requests for essential facilities such as a fire service outpost and public toilets within the market, which the Chairman approved.
“This is indeed commendable, and we hope other local government areas will replicate this model,” he added.
In response, the Chairman of Bichi LGA, Hon. Hamza Sule Mai Fata Bichi, appreciated TJ&GP for the visit and the impactful training provided to their members on the Tax-for-Service framework.
Represented by the Vice Chairman of the LGA, Hon. Abubakar Sule Babangida, the Chairman acknowledged that no nation can achieve economic prosperity without a functional and standardized revenue system.
He further noted that Bichi LGA is actively working to strengthen its revenue mechanisms and curb tax leakages. “All preparations are in place to establish the Bichi LGA Revenue Committee, and the demands of marketers are being carefully considered,” he said.
Hon. Abubakar assured that Bichi LGA will continue to collaborate with TJ&GP for a successful and transparent approach to tax-related matters and the effective utilization of resources for the economic growth of both the LGA and Kano State at large.
