A Nigerian man has sparked online discussions after sharing his experience with Germany’s taxation system and comparing it to what citizens receive for their taxes in Nigeria.
..., shared on X by @badonB and later reposted on Facebook by Usman Isyaku, highlighted the benefits of paying taxes in countries like Germany and Norway.
High Taxes, High Benefits
According to the man, he pays 42% of his monthly salary in taxes in Germany. However, he emphasized that this comes with numerous advantages for citizens.
Free Education from Primary to PhD
He also noted that public education in Germany is free, covering all levels from primary school to PhD programs.
Families reportedly receive additional support, with each child receiving €250 monthly until they turn 18.
Affordable Transportation and Safety
He also revealed that Public transport in Germany is highly affordable, with a monthly ticket costing just €56, which allows unlimited travel across the country via trains (excluding high-speed trains) and buses.
Government Support Abroad
The man highlighted that residents who face difficulties abroad can contact the government for assistance, ensuring citizens are never left stranded.
Comparing Germany to Nigeria
He questioned the logic behind paying roughly 30% tax in Nigeria, noting that much of the system is based on the UK model.
He emphasized that taxes should be used to build the country and support citizens, rather than simply generating revenue.
In his words:
“I pay 42% tax every month in Germany, but if:
- I lose my job, the government pays me 60% of my salary and helps me find a new one.
- I have access to three years leave if I have a baby, with a percentage of my salary, and my job will wait for me until I resume.
- Education is free in government schools from primary to PhD.
- For every child I have, they get paid €250 monthly until they turn 18.
- I can buy a monthly ticket for €56 and travel all around the country via trains (not high-speed) and buses.
- In any emergency, once you call the ambulance, it arrives within 20 minutes.
- Defibrillators and SOS access are available at every train station and along highways.
- If I get stuck in a country, I call the government and they come to my support.
Let me stop here. You, paying about 30% tax in Nigeria, copied 90% from the UK tax law—what do you get?”
(Source: @badonB on X)
I can reproduce a similar argument from living in Norway for six years. “Taxes are designed to build the country and support every single citizen, not to steal from them.”
See below;
