Taiwo Oyedele, the chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, has talked about the tremendous emotional and personal sacrifices he made while spearheading Nigeria’s significant tax reform program.
After President Bola Tinubu signed four landmark tax reform laws into law earlier in the day, Oyedele spoke in an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today about the high price of public service.
Oyedele, who was appointed by President Tinubu in July 2023, claimed that although the job had a big influence on his family life, career, and finances, he accepted it out of a sense of patriotism.
“It really had an impact on everything, including my financial situation and job path. I’m not complaining because I made the choice consciously,” he stated. “In actuality, the government’s funding was so meager that I chose to accept reimbursement for direct expenses rather than a salary.”
Oyedele stated that the emotional toll was the most challenging aspect of the journey, despite the significant financial cost.
“The emotional cost, particularly on my family, was the hardest sacrifice. My loved ones were greatly affected by false headlines and fake tales that were posted online.
He disclosed that his wife turned to nightly prayer vigils as a result of the emotional strain, highlighting the unseen weight that public servants bear.
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“My wife continued to try to function throughout the day while maintaining night vigils every night. It was difficult. Fortunately, our children are too little to completely understand the challenges we have been facing.
Oyedele warned that such animosity could discourage talented individuals from entering public service and urged Nigerians to support those who volunteer to serve the country.
“Nigerians must not make it more difficult for good people who are attempting to assist if they genuinely want to see their country improve. Choosing to serve in public service is already challenging; adding extra pressure would only turn decent individuals away.
As the country gets ready to enact comprehensive tax reforms meant to promote fiscal responsibility and economic progress, his sincere comments provide a unique window into the personal struggles that underlie significant policy effort.
