The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) women wing, Thursday, expressed concern over the proposed tax reform bill, citing a lack of awareness among women in the North.

Speaking at a one-day national women conference in Jos with the theme; “The Position of Northern Women on the Controversial Tax Reform Bills”, National Coordinator of CNG, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanch, noted that while the bills have some positive proposals, women in the region are largely unaware of their details.

Comrade Charanch emphasised that women in northern Nigeria form a significant part of the informal sector, contributing to the economy through small-scale trading and farming. He argued that they deserve to be heard before any tax law is implemented, adding that the bill contravenes constitutional provisions.

“The position of the CNG is not different from that of the National Economic Council, the Northern Governors, and traditional rulers, who all advocated for wider consultations before the bills’ consideration by the National Assembly,” Comrade Charanch said.

Comrade Nankling Pamala Nanle, CNG Director of Women Affairs, echoed similar concerns, stating that they seemed to ignore the high concentration of the informal sector workers in the North. She emphasised the need for direct consultations to ensure economic justice and fairness.

“We are calling for evidence of economic justice and fairness, cutting across diverse interest groups, not just the political class,” Comrade Pamala said. “Women will continue to press the National Assembly for more consultations and adjustments to ensure the bill’s benefits impact the common man.”

Hon. Olivia Daziem in a keynote address stressed that good governance is essential for Northern women.