The Federal Government has confirmed that the new tax laws will commence on January 1, 2026, as scheduled, despite ongoing public debate around some provisions of the recently enacted reforms.
In a statement on Tuesday, the government said the tax reform package, which includes laws that already took effect on June 26, 2025, as well as additional acts due to begin in 2026, remains firmly on course. The administration described the reforms as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a fair, competitive and resilient fiscal framework for the country.
According to the government, the new tax laws are not intended to increase the tax burden on Nigerians. Rather, they are designed to drive a structural reset of the tax system, promote harmonisation across different taxes, and strengthen the social contract while protecting the dignity of citizens and businesses.
The Presidency noted that the implementation phase of the reforms has now entered what it described as the “delivery stage,” urging all stakeholders, including taxpayers, businesses, professional bodies and subnational governments, to support the process to ensure its success.
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Addressing concerns raised in public discourse, the government acknowledged reports of alleged changes or potential amendments to some sections of the tax laws. However, it stressed that no substantial issue has been identified that would justify halting or disrupting the reform programme.
The administration warned against what it termed premature or reactive measures, stating that public trust in governance is built over time through consistent and well-considered decisions, rather than abrupt policy reversals. It maintained that stability and predictability are critical to the credibility of fiscal reforms.
Reaffirming its commitment to due process, the Presidency said it remains fully committed to the integrity of laws that have been duly enacted. It added that the Federal Government would continue to engage constructively with the National Assembly to ensure that any genuine issues identified during implementation are resolved swiftly and in line with legislative procedures.
The government further assured Nigerians that all actions taken in the course of implementing the tax reforms would be guided by the overriding public interest. Officials said the goal is to establish a tax system that supports economic growth, encourages investment, and promotes shared responsibility among citizens.
The reforms are expected to modernise Nigeria’s tax architecture, improve compliance, reduce inefficiencies and create a more predictable environment for businesses. The Federal Government expressed confidence that, with sustained collaboration and transparency, the new tax laws would contribute to long-term prosperity and fiscal sustainability for the country.