No going back on tax laws, Tinubu tells critics

By Paul Dada

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has insisted that his administration will proceed with the implementation of newly enacted tax laws, dismissing suggestions that the reform process should be disrupted amid public debate over some provisions.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the President said the new tax laws, some of which took effect on June 26, 2025, with others scheduled to commence on January 1, 2026, would continue as planned.  He described the reforms as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to establish a fair, competitive and resilient fiscal framework for Nigeria.

Tinubu stressed that the reforms were not designed to raise taxes, but to achieve a structural reset of the tax system, promote harmonisation and protect citizens’ dignity while strengthening the social contract between government and the people.

“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,”he said.

Acknowledging the ongoing public discourse over alleged changes to certain provisions of the laws, Tinubu maintained that no substantial issue had been identified to justify halting or altering the reform process. He cautioned against what he described as premature or reactive measures, noting that public trust is built over time through consistent, sound decision-making.

The President urged all stakeholders to support the current implementation phase, which he said had firmly entered the delivery stage, and reiterated his administration’s commitment to due process and the integrity of laws duly enacted.

He added that the Presidency would work closely with the National Assembly to ensure the swift resolution of any issues that may be identified 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,” Tinubu said.

The statement was signed by the President in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.