President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed that the implementation of Nigeria’s tax reform will begin as scheduled on January 1, 2026, dismissing calls for a delay amid growing controversy.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the president described the reforms as a historic opportunity to overhaul the country’s fiscal framework, stressing that the new laws are not intended to increase taxes.
“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,” Tinubu said.
“These reforms are a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal foundation for our country.
“The tax laws are not designed to raise taxes, but rather to support a structural reset, drive harmonisation, and protect dignity while strengthening the social contract.
“I urge all stakeholders to support the implementation phase, which is now firmly in the delivery stage.”
The president acknowledged public concerns over alleged discrepancies between the versions of the tax laws passed by the National Assembly and those later gazetted, but insisted there was no compelling reason to halt the reform process.
“Our administration is aware of the public discourse surrounding alleged changes to some provisions of the recently enacted tax laws,” Tinubu said.
“No substantial issue has been established that warrants a disruption of the reform process. Absolute trust is built over time through making the right decisions, not through premature, reactive measures.
“I emphasise our administration’s unwavering commitment to due process and the integrity of enacted laws. The Presidency pledges to work with the National Assembly to ensure the swift resolution of any issue identified.
“I assure all Nigerians that the Federal Government will continue to act in the overriding public interest to ensure a tax system that supports prosperity and shared responsibility.”
The controversy erupted on December 17 after Abdussamad Dasuki, a member of the House of Representatives, alleged that the tax reform laws signed by the president differed from the versions approved by parliament and made available to the public.
His claim triggered widespread criticism and renewed demands for the suspension of the reforms.
In response, the leadership of both the Senate and the House of Representatives on December 26 directed the Clerk of the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, to work with relevant executive agencies to re-gazette the tax laws, in an effort to address the concerns raised.