President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed that the recently enacted tax laws scheduled to commence on January 1, 2026, will take effect as planned, despite opposition from some stakeholders.
The President made this known in a statement on Tuesday, explaining that the new tax laws are not intended to increase the tax burden on Nigerians but to promote harmonization and structural reforms within the nation’s fiscal system.
Tinubu acknowledged ongoing public agitation regarding aspects of the new legislation but maintained that no substantial issues have been raised to justify suspending the implementation process.
According to him, the reforms represent a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to build a fair, competitive, and sustainable tax framework for Nigeria.
He stated:
“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.”
Tinubu stressed that the objective of the reforms is not to raise taxes, but to reset the system, enhance coordination, protect citizens’ dignity, and strengthen the social contract between government and the people.
He assured Nigerians that his administration remains committed to due process and the integrity of enacted laws, pledging to collaborate with the National Assembly and other stakeholders to resolve any grey areas.
The President added that trust in government policies is built through consistent, correct decisions rather than “premature, reactive measures.”
Tinubu further reassured citizens that the Federal Government will continue to act in the public interest to ensure a tax system that supports prosperity, shared responsibility, and economic stability.