The Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Kabir Shotobi, has urged citizens to support the new tax reform, describing it as progressive and protective of poor Nigerians.

Mr Shotobi made the appeal on Thursday while visiting a hospital in Ikorodu, Lagos, to distribute gifts to the first babies of the year.

He said the reforms reflected the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s APC-led government to a fairer, more efficient tax system that would improve national revenue.

“In simple arithmetic, bank transaction charges have gone. The tax reform will benefit us. Let us be patient; Nigeria will get there,” the traditional ruler said.

He added that Nigerians would manage reforms internally without waiting for external bodies to dictate policies.

According to him, the reforms would end multiple deductions, easing pressure on low-income earners and small businesses.

The first baby in Ikorodu, a male, was delivered by Esther Fatai at 12:13 a.m., weighing 3.9kg.

The second male baby was delivered by Abiodun Shittu at 3:08 a.m., while a third was born to Damilola Olufinkua at 4:03 a.m.

Cash and baby materials were presented to the mothers by Mr Shotobi, accompanied by his wife, Kudirat, and caregivers.

Taiwo Hassan, medical director at the General Hospital Ikorodu, thanked Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for supporting the hospital’s development.

“You cannot push General Hospital Ikorodu aside. Our staff support indigent patients and residents with professionalism,” Mr Hassan said.

He added that a renal centre under construction was 80 per cent complete, and he appreciated stakeholders for their continued support.

(NAN)