The Federal Government has reaffirmed that Nigeria’s new tax laws will come into full effect on January 1, 2026, as planned, dismissing calls for their suspension or delay amid growing public debate.
In a State House press statement issued on Tuesday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu described the tax reforms as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to rebuild Nigeria’s fiscal framework and strengthen the social contract between the government and citizens.
“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,” the President said.
Tinubu emphasised that the reforms are not aimed at increasing taxes but at delivering a comprehensive structural reset that promotes fairness, harmonisation, competitiveness and dignity within the tax system.
“These reforms are designed to support a structural reset, drive harmonisation, and protect dignity while strengthening the social contract,” he said, urging stakeholders to focus on effective implementation.
The President acknowledged the ongoing public discourse surrounding alleged changes to certain provisions of the tax laws but insisted that no substantive issues had been identified to justify halting or altering the reform process.
“No substantial issue has been established that warrants a disruption of the reform process,” Tinubu stated, adding that public trust in governance is built through consistent and well-considered decisions rather than “premature, reactive measures.”
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to due process and the integrity of enacted legislation, while pledging continued cooperation with the National Assembly to address any legitimate concerns that may arise during implementation.
“The Presidency will work with the National Assembly to ensure the swift resolution of any issue identified,” the statement said.
President Tinubu further assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would continue to act in the overriding public interest to deliver a tax system that supports prosperity, shared responsibility and long-term economic stability.
