Following president Bola Tinubu’s directive on tax harmonisation, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Youth Residents Association has called on stakeholders to exercise caution on tax revenue collection.

The association also called for the inclusion of the indigenous people of FCT in Tinubu’s cabinet, emphasizing the need for a sense of belonging and equity in the government.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, President-General of the Association, Comrade Akoshile Mukhtar, stressed that there is an urgent need to provide a sense of belonging to the indigenous people of Abuja beyond merely being the host of the nation’s political capital and seat of government.

He emphasized that equity and inclusivity in government require the representation of the FCT’s indigenous people through a cabinet-level appointee.

According to him, the importance of this issue was brought to the fore following recent debates about the FCT’s status during the Presidential Election Tribunal proceedings.

Speaking on tax matters, the association urged all stakeholders to exercise caution while adhering to President Tinubu’s directive on tax harmonization.

The body recognized the constitutional empowerment of Local Governments to collect taxes but stressed the need for policies that align with national developmental goals, attract investment, and prevent multiple taxation.

“We call on all local governments to support this policy move, which aims to encourage corporate entities to comply with tax regulations, and to exercise these powers with caution,” Akoshile said.

The Association also lauded the FCT Administration (FCTA) for their effective management of the nation’s capital in the absence of a substantive Minister of the FCT.

It urged residents and indigenes to cooperate fully with President Tinubu’s efforts in repositioning Nigeria and the FCT for optimal economic performance.

The Association pledged to continue supporting the FCTA and the Presidency in building a Nigeria that fosters the prosperity of all its citizens.