President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has firmly rejected opposition demands to postpone the implementation of Nigeria’s new tax laws, insisting that the comprehensive fiscal reforms will take effect as scheduled on 1 January 2026. The laws include provisions that partially took effect in June 2025 and are intended to modernise revenue collection and simplify Nigeria’s tax system.
Tinubu stated in a message personally signed that no substantial issue has been identified that would justify disrupting the roll-out, dismissing claims that discrepancies between the harmonised versions passed by the National Assembly and the gazetted text warrant a delay. He described the reforms as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal framework, drive harmonisation and protect dignity without unfairly increasing tax burdens.
While acknowledging public debate over perceived changes in some provisions, Tinubu urged stakeholders to support the implementation phase and pledged continued collaboration with lawmakers to address concerns as they arise. The President reiterated his commitment to due process and the integrity of enacted laws, assuring Nigerians that the reforms are necessary for long-term economic stability.
Opposition parties, including the PDP, have called for a fuller review of the discrepancies before enforcement begins, but the federal government has maintained its stance that implementation will proceed as planned from the beginning of the new year.
