The President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed that Nigeria’s newly enacted tax laws will commence as scheduled on January 1, 2026, declaring that there is no justification for suspending or disrupting the ongoing fiscal reform process.
According to the press statement issued on Tuesday, December 30, 2025 by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the new tax regime, some aspects of which already took effect on June 26, 2025, represents a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to reset Nigeria’s fiscal framework and build a more competitive, fair, and resilient economy.
The President further stated that the reforms are not intended to impose additional tax burdens on Nigerians but to address long-standing structural inefficiencies 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 stated.
He urged stakeholders across the public and private sectors to rally behind the implementation phase, adding that the reform agenda has now moved decisively from legislation to delivery.
He also addressed growing public debate and speculation over alleged changes to some provisions of the recently enacted laws. The President made it clear that no substantial flaws have been identified that would warrant halting the reforms.
“No substantial issue has been established that warrants a disruption of the reform process,” he said, stressing that trust in governance is built through consistent and well-considered decisions, not through “premature, reactive measures.”
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to due process and the sanctity of laws duly passed and enacted. He assured Nigerians that the Presidency remains open to collaboration with the National Assembly to resolve any issues that may arise during implementation.
“The Presidency pledges to work with the National Assembly to ensure the swift resolution of any issue identified,” the statement read.
Reassuring citizens of the government’s broader intentions, the President said the Federal Government would continue to act in the overriding public interest to ensure that Nigeria’s tax system promotes prosperity, fairness, and shared responsibility.
The tax reforms are a central pillar of the Tinubu administration’s economic agenda, aimed at improving revenue efficiency, reducing duplication, and strengthening the social contract between the government and the governed as Nigeria navigates ongoing economic challenges.
