Ex-rep asks FG to deploy tax revenue into infrastructure projects

Emmanuel Ekon, a former member of the house of representatives, has asked government at all levels to fix infrastructure and improve power supply.

Speaking at the unveiling of CitiMall in Abuja on Friday, Ekon, who represented Abak/Etim Ekpo/Ika federal constituency of Akwa Ibom in the 8th assembly, said in developed societies, taxes fund essential amenities that create an enabling environment for private sector investment.

“I encourage governments to provide the necessary infrastructure to enable businesses like this to thrive. I live in the US. I have dual citizenship and know what it means outside the country. You cannot do anything without taxes,” he said.

“You can’t buy water, drinks, or anything in other countries without paying taxes. So, I don’t see taxes as a kind of punishment by the government.

“But I will advise the government to use the taxes to better the lives of Nigerians.

“They should use that money [taxes] to put the necessary infrastructure [in place] so that young Nigerians who want to venture out on their own can take advantage of it.”

Andy Elerewe, CEO of AIBEN Properties, said improving infrastructure is crucial for boosting private investment in Nigeria’s real estate and commercial sectors.

“I have to be honest with you. It’s not so easy because the infrastructure is not there to support things like this. But I don’t think it’s that bad. So, we also need to learn what we can do to support the government. The government is seriously overwhelmed,” he said.

“I’m not trying to speak for them. But for us, we’ll continue to do the best we can to support the government and get the service across to the people. That’s the most important thing.

“Nigeria is a huge market. With good management, ventures like this will yield results. What people need is access to services close to them. This project saves residents money and time because they no longer need to travel far to meet their basic needs.

He advised young Nigerians to embrace hard work rather than fall prey to quick-rich schemes.