President Bola Tinubu has restated the Federal Government’s resolve to implement Nigeria’s newly enacted tax laws as scheduled, dismissing calls for their suspension amid ongoing public debate.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, the President said the reforms are critical to rebuilding the nation’s fiscal framework and will not be halted.
He explained that while some of the laws took effect on June 26, 2025, others are set to commence on January 1, 2026. According to him, the measures are designed as long-term interventions to promote fairness, competitiveness and economic sustainability, not to impose additional tax burdens on citizens.
Tinubu described the reforms as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to reset Nigeria’s tax system and strengthen its fiscal foundation.
“The new tax laws, including those that took effect on June 26, 2025, and the remaining acts scheduled to commence on January 1, 2026, will continue as planned,” he said.
He added that the laws aim to drive structural reforms, harmonise the tax system and reinforce the social contract between government and citizens, rather than raise taxes.
The President acknowledged concerns raised by some stakeholders over alleged changes to certain provisions but insisted that no substantial issue has been identified to justify halting the process.
“Our administration is aware of the public discourse surrounding alleged changes to some provisions of the recently enacted tax laws. No substantial issue has been established that warrants a disruption of the reform process,” Tinubu said, stressing that trust is built through consistent and well-considered decisions.
What it means
Tinubu’s position signals the government’s determination to maintain policy consistency and certainty, which it views as essential for economic stability and public confidence.
The administration believes the reforms will encourage shared responsibility, boost investor confidence and support long-term economic growth, despite continued debate over specific provisions.
What you should know
The controversy centres on four laws: the Nigeria Tax Act, 2025; Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025; Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2025; and the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, 2025.
Signed into law on June 26, 2025, the Acts represent a major overhaul of Nigeria’s tax system and are scheduled to take effect from January 1, 2026.
