President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed that Nigeria’s new tax laws will come into force on January 1, 2026, despite growing controversy and allegations of document forgery surrounding the legislation.
Opposition lawmakers and civil society organisations have claimed that the version of the tax laws signed and gazetted by the President differs from the one passed by the National Assembly. According to reports, the altered document allegedly contains provisions granting expanded powers to tax authorities and introducing new financial obligations that were not approved by lawmakers. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described the alleged alterations as “a brazen act of treason against the Nigerian people.”
In a statement issued on Tuesday, President Tinubu dismissed calls to suspend the implementation of the laws, stressing that the reforms would proceed as scheduled. He maintained that the new tax framework is not intended to increase the tax burden on Nigerians but to promote harmonisation and structural reform within the fiscal system.
The President acknowledged public concerns over the laws but stated that no substantial issue has been identified that would justify halting the reform process. He assured Nigerians that his administration remains committed to due process and transparency.
According to the statement, some of the tax laws have already taken effect since June 26, 2025, while the remaining provisions are set to commence on January 1, 2026.
Describing the reforms as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity,” Tinubu said the laws aim to build a fair, competitive, and resilient fiscal foundation, strengthen the social contract, and protect the dignity of citizens.
He further pledged that the Presidency would work closely with the National Assembly and other stakeholders to resolve any outstanding concerns and ensure smooth implementation.
“I assure all Nigerians that the Federal Government will continue to act in the overriding public interest to deliver a tax system that supports prosperity and shared responsibility,” the statement concluded.
