President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has confirmed that the implementation of Nigeria’s new tax reform laws will begin as scheduled on January 1, 2026.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement on Tuesday, he described the reforms as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to strengthen the country’s fiscal framework, emphasising that the laws are not designed to raise taxes but to harmonise the system and support economic growth.
Tinubu said, “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.”
“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.”
The president urged all stakeholders to support the implementation phase, noting that the reforms are now in the delivery stage.
While acknowledging public concerns over alleged discrepancies between the laws passed by the National Assembly and the gazetted versions, Tinubu said there is no substantial reason to halt the process.
He said, “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.”
“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 president added that the government would continue to work closely with the National Assembly to swiftly resolve any issues identified, assuring Nigerians that the tax system will promote shared responsibility and support prosperity.
The controversy began on December 17 when Abdussamad Dasuki, a member of the House of Representatives, alleged that differences existed between the tax reform laws passed by parliament and the publicly gazetted copy.
The claim sparked public debate, with some calling for a suspension of the reforms. In response, on December 26, the leadership of the Senate and House of Representatives directed Kamoru Ogunlana, Clerk to the National Assembly, to liaise with relevant executive agencies to re-gazette the tax laws and clarify any discrepancies.
The Presidency has reiterated that the January 1 commencement is sacrosanct and that the reforms remain central to the administration’s plan to modernise Nigeria’s fiscal system.
