New Tax Laws: Tinubu Rejects Suspension Appeal, Confirms January 1 2026 Implementation
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed that the implementation of Nigeria’s newly enacted tax reform laws will proceed as planned on January 1, 2026, despite ongoing public debate around aspects of the legislation.
In a statement obtained by PulseNets on Tuesday, the President described the reforms as a rare, generational opportunity to entrench a fair, competitive, and resilient fiscal system, emphasising that the laws are not designed to impose higher taxes on Nigerians.
Tinubu clarified that while some components of the tax reform package became effective on June 26, 2025, others are legally scheduled to commence from January 1, 2026, stressing that the implementation timeline remains intact.
“These reforms offer a once-in-a-generation chance to lay the foundation for a fair, competitive, and sustainable fiscal system for Nigeria,” the President stated.
He explained that the primary objective of the tax laws is to drive deep structural reforms, harmonise the country’s fragmented tax framework, and protect the dignity of citizens, rather than increase tax burdens. According to him, the reforms are also intended to strengthen the social contract between the government and the governed.
PulseNets learnt that the President called on all relevant stakeholders to rally behind the implementation process, noting that the reforms have now entered what he described as a decisive delivery phase.
Reacting to public concerns over alleged discrepancies between the versions of the tax laws passed by the National Assembly and those later gazetted, Tinubu acknowledged the ongoing discussions but insisted there is no justifiable basis to suspend or delay the reform agenda.
“Our administration recognises the public conversations around claims of changes to certain provisions in the recently enacted tax laws,” he said.
“However, nothing substantial has emerged that warrants stopping this reform process. Trust is earned through consistent, well-considered decisions, not through rushed or reactive measures.”
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The President further reassured Nigerians of his administration’s commitment to due process and the sanctity of duly enacted laws, adding that his government will continue to work closely with the National Assembly to promptly address any issues that may surface during implementation.
Tinubu also assured that the Federal Government remains firmly committed to acting in the public interest, with the goal of delivering a tax system that supports national prosperity, fairness, and shared responsibility, PulseNets reported.
