President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has insisted that Nigeria’s newly enacted tax laws will take effect as scheduled on January 1, 2026, despite growing public criticism and nationwide debate over the reforms.
In a State House press statement issued on December 30, 2025, the President declared that all components of the new tax framework—including those that came into force on June 26, 2025, and the remaining provisions slated for January—would proceed without delay.
“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 stated.
He described the reforms as historic, arguing that they represent a rare opportunity to overhaul Nigeria’s fiscal architecture. According to him, the laws are aimed at creating a more equitable and competitive economic system rather than imposing additional burdens on citizens.
“These reforms are a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal foundation for our country,” the President said.
Addressing concerns that the new laws are designed to increase taxes, Tinubu dismissed such claims, stressing that the objective is structural reform and harmonisation of the tax system.
“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,” he explained.
The President called on stakeholders across sectors to rally behind the implementation process, noting that the reform agenda has moved beyond legislation into execution.
“I urge all stakeholders to support the implementation phase, which is now firmly in the delivery stage,” he said.
Tinubu also acknowledged the intense public discourse surrounding alleged amendments and controversial provisions within the tax laws. However, he maintained that no compelling justification has been established to halt or suspend the reforms.
“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,” he said.
He cautioned against what he described as hasty reversals driven by pressure, insisting that trust in governance is built through consistency and principled decision-making.
“Absolute trust is built over time through making the right decisions, not through premature, reactive measures,” Tinubu added.
Reaffirming his commitment to constitutional governance, the President pledged that his administration would uphold due process and work closely with lawmakers to address any genuine concerns that may arise.
“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,” he stated.
Tinubu concluded by assuring Nigerians that the reforms are ultimately intended to serve the broader public interest and strengthen shared national responsibility.
“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 President said.
The statement was signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
