President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed that Nigeria’s newly enacted tax laws will commence as scheduled on January 1, 2026, dismissing speculation about possible delays or reversals amid ongoing public debate over some provisions. The President said the Federal Government remains fully committed to the implementation of the reforms, describing them as a historic opportunity to reset the country’s fiscal framework and strengthen the social contract between the state and citizens.
In a statement released on Tuesday, President Tinubu clarified that the tax reform package includes laws that already took effect on June 26, 2025, alongside other Acts that are due to begin operation at the start of the new year. According to him, all the laws will proceed as planned, marking what he called a “once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal foundation for our country.”
The President stressed that the reforms are not intended to impose additional tax burdens on Nigerians, but to address long-standing structural weaknesses in 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,” Tinubu said. He added that the reforms are aimed at improving efficiency, fairness and trust in public finance.
Responding to reports and public discourse suggesting that certain provisions of the newly enacted laws may be altered or suspended, the President said no substantial issue has been identified that justifies halting or disrupting the reform process. “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 stated.
Tinubu cautioned against what he described as premature and reactive policy reversals, noting that confidence in governance is built through consistency and sound decision-making. “Absolute trust is built over time through making the right decisions, not through premature, reactive measures,” he said.
The President also underscored his administration’s commitment to due process and respect for the rule of law, assuring Nigerians that any genuine concerns would be addressed through the appropriate constitutional channels. “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,” Tinubu said.
Calling for cooperation from all quarters, the President urged stakeholders, including businesses, tax professionals and subnational governments, to support the implementation phase of the reforms, which he said has now entered a critical delivery stage. He assured citizens that the Federal Government would continue to act in the national interest. “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,” he added.
