Chief Ayuba Burki Gufwan, a polio survivor, human rights activist, and Executive Director of the Beautiful Gate Handicapped People’s Center in Jos, has urged Nigerian lawmakers to revise the country’s tax laws in order to facilitate charitable donations.
Speaking on the Nigerian Television Authority’s ‘Rock City’ breakfast show, Chief Gufwan stressed the significance of allowing a portion of tax revenues to directly benefit charitable causes, a practice commonly seen in other countries worldwide.
He pointed out the lack of governmental backing in Nigeria for local humanitarian initiatives, which heavily depend on foreign aid. Chief Gufwan voiced concerns that changes in foreign policies could endanger current foreign aid support, leaving local assistance efforts insufficient.
In his own words, Chief Gufwan explained, “The main obstacle in Nigeria regarding funding and supporting humanitarian aid is the government’s failure to create a conducive environment for citizens to contribute. In the United States, for instance, the government provides incentives for contributions. American citizens are allowed to donate a percentage of their taxable income to charities, both locally and internationally.
“In Nigeria, the government collects 100% of our taxes and utilizes it as they see fit. This system has limited impact. I urge our lawmakers to pass a law that permits Nigerian citizens, including individuals, corporate organizations, and societies, to donate a portion of their income to charities of their choice. This change would greatly boost humanitarian efforts in Nigeria by providing much-needed funding.”
Chief Gufwan’s plea underscores the necessity for legislative adjustments to establish a sustainable support structure for humanitarian initiatives in Nigeria, reducing dependency on uncertain foreign aid and promoting local contributions to charitable causes.
