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By Lizzy Chirkpi
President Bola Tinubu has insisted that his administration will proceed with the implementation of the newly enacted tax laws, despite ongoing public debate and calls in some quarters for a suspension of the reforms.
In a statement he personally signed and released on Tuesday, the President said the government remains committed to the reform timetable, explaining that while some provisions of the new tax laws came into force on June 26, 2025, others will take effect from January 1, 2026.
Tinubu described the reforms as a historic opportunity to overhaul Nigeria’s tax architecture and build a system that is fairer, more competitive and sustainable.
According to him, the reforms are not designed to impose additional tax pressure on Nigerians, but to correct long-standing structural weaknesses, streamline administration and restore confidence in the system.
“The new tax laws are not intended to raise taxes. They are designed to reset the system structurally, promote harmonisation, protect dignity and strengthen the social contract,” the President said.
He acknowledged the concerns and discussions generated by some sections of the laws but noted that no fundamental flaws have been identified that would justify halting or reversing the reform process.
Tinubu cautioned against impulsive policy reversals, stressing that trust in governance is built through consistency and careful implementation over time.
“The reform programme has now moved firmly into the delivery phase, and it is important that all stakeholders lend their support,” he said, adding that the government would continue to respect due process and uphold laws duly passed by the National Assembly and assented to by the President.
The President further assured Nigerians that his administration would work closely with the National Assembly to swiftly address any implementation challenges that may emerge.
“I want to assure Nigerians that the Federal Government will always act in the overall public interest to deliver a tax system that promotes prosperity, fairness and shared responsibility,” Tinubu said.