
Task Reform Bill: CNG Calls for Suspension, Wider Consultation
Edited by Samson Olakunle
The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has called for the suspension of the controversial Task Reform Bill, currently before the National Assembly, and a wider consultation with Nigerians.
Mr. Jamilu Aliyu Chiranchi, National Coordinator of CNG, made the call at a forum in Damaturu, Yobe State, themed “Task Reform Bill, a catalyst for economic growth or a burden on people?”
Chiranchi identified several areas of concern in the bill, including the derivation formula in Section 77, which he said requires clarity on whether derivation should be based on the company’s headquarters or consumption level.
He also expressed concern about Section 59, which proposes to stop funding development levies for agencies such as the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) by 2027.
Chiranchi argued that these agencies have contributed significantly to Nigeria’s economic, infrastructural, educational, and technological development, and that stopping their funding would undermine their activities.
The CNG national coordinator questioned the rationale behind the bill, asking whether it would alleviate the suffering caused by the fuel subsidy removal, address inflation, or reduce the hike in food prices.
He called on members of the National Assembly to suspend the bill and engage in wider consultations with Nigerians, citing the example of the Petroleum Industry Bill, which took over 10 years to become law.
Mr. Hassan Adamu, National Coordinator of the Students Wing of CNG, lamented the proposed stoppage of funding for TETFund, which he said would affect Nigerian institutions.
Miss Fatima Abubakar, North-East Coordinator of the National Female Association of Nigeria, also rejected the bill, stating that it would worsen the already poor state of women’s education and participation in economic activities in northern Nigeria.