President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dismissed mounting public debate and criticism surrounding Nigeria’s newly enacted tax reforms, declaring that all new tax laws will commence as scheduled on January 1, 2026.
In a State House press statement issued on December 30, 2025, the President affirmed that the tax laws—some of which took effect on June 26, 2025, with others set for implementation in 2026—remain firmly on course, despite growing concerns and calls for a pause or review.
President Tinubu described the reforms as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to reset Nigeria’s fiscal framework, insisting they are not intended to increase the tax burden on citizens but to restructure, harmonise, and strengthen the country’s revenue system.
“The tax laws are not designed to raise taxes,” the statement said, “but to support a structural reset, drive harmonisation, and protect dignity while strengthening the social contract.”
Addressing claims that some provisions of the tax laws may have been altered or require urgent reconsideration, the President said no substantial issue has been identified that justifies halting or disrupting the reform process. He cautioned against what he termed “premature, reactive measures,” stressing that trust in governance is built through consistency and sound decision-making over time.
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Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to due process and the sanctity of enacted laws, pledging continued engagement with the National Assembly to resolve any concerns that may arise during implementation.
“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 stated.
The announcement signals the Federal Government’s determination to push ahead with sweeping fiscal reforms amid a tense economic climate, rising cost-of-living concerns, and heightened public scrutiny of government policy decisions.
With the implementation phase now described as being “firmly in the delivery stage,” all eyes are on how the reforms will impact businesses, workers, and ordinary Nigerians when they fully take effect in 2026.