President Bola Tinubu has declared an unwavering commitment to implementing Nigeria's new tax reform laws, stating there is no going back on the schedule that will see key provisions take effect on January 1, 2026.
A Once-in-a-Generation Fiscal Reset
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the President framed the comprehensive reforms as a critical, historic opportunity for the nation. He described them as essential for constructing a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal foundation for Nigeria's future.
"The reforms are a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal foundation for our country," Tinubu stated, urging all stakeholders to rally behind the initiative.
Clarifying the Purpose: Reset, Not Revenue Hike
Addressing public concerns and controversies trailing the policy, President Tinubu offered a crucial clarification. He emphasised that the primary goal of the new legal framework is not to increase the tax burden on Nigerians and businesses.
Instead, he explained, the laws are designed to facilitate a structural reset of the nation's fiscal system. The objectives are threefold:
- To drive harmonisation across various tax jurisdictions and regulations.
- To support a fundamental restructuring of the economic framework.
- To strengthen the social contract between the government and the citizenry.
"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," the President elaborated.
Implementation Phase Enters Delivery Stage
Tinubu noted that the reform process has now decisively moved from planning to execution. He called for cooperation during this critical implementation phase, underscoring that the project is firmly in the delivery stage.
"I urge all stakeholders to support the implementation phase, which is now firmly in the delivery stage," he appealed.
The President acknowledged the ongoing public discourse and scrutiny regarding certain provisions of the recently enacted laws. However, he maintained that no substantial issue has been identified that would justify pausing or disrupting the reform timeline.
Reaffirming his administration's respect for due process, Tinubu stressed that absolute public trust is earned through consistent, correct decision-making over time, not through reactive measures. He assured Nigerians that the Presidency would continue to collaborate with the National Assembly to address any legitimate concerns that may emerge during the rollout.
"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," President Tinubu concluded.
The reforms include laws that already took effect on June 26 of this year, alongside the broader set of changes scheduled for the start of 2026.
