FG, Bill Gates mull digital platform for tax collection

Microsoft Founder and Philanthropist, Bill Gates, says he is working with the Federal Government on a one-identity technological platform to make tax collection easier in the country.

Gates disclosed this during a meeting with Tinubu on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum Special Meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Sunday, April 28, 2024.

The former Chief Executive Officer of Microsoft said: “We are working with Mr Wale Edun, the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, on digitisation.

“Before you came into office, there were a few things attempted in identity management. But they have been very scattered. There have been multiple identification systems.

“Now, there is a plan to take that technology called MOSIP and use it for this identification platform so that people can get digital benefits. We are providing support for that, and we can provide more support.

“With MOSIP ID, there is potential application in all government payment programmes. It helps with payment efficiency and bank accounts, and eventually, when everyone is using that, it makes tax collection easier. That benefit will take a few years.

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“However, there will be more bank accounts, more financial inclusion, and effective government payment programmes.”

Gates, according to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, said Nigeria has the capacity to manage this system and related technological systems as the nation brims with talented youths.

He added: “The last time I went to the Microsoft office in Lagos, I saw the amazing work that they were doing and how they were growing their operations.

“So, you have a lot of Nigerian talents to manage these systems.”

The businessman also spoke about some high-yield seeds and a variety of crops with the potential for improved productivity and nutrition in all regions of the country.

He said countries like the United States and Brazil have been using these seeds and that they have been tested and certified as safe.

“There is no safety issue with these seeds. Supporting the Minister of Agriculture’s effort in this regard is something that we feel is important and worth supporting,” Gates added.

Responding to Gates’ submission, President Tinubu said: “We will look at this and work on it further.

“I am proud of Nigerian youths. They are very excited and creative with technology. They encourage us as we continue to press our reform efforts forward for their future prosperity. This is Nigeria’s time to become what it ought to be.”

The Star