Tinubu Says “No Substantial Issues” in Alteration of Gazetted Tax Laws, Reaffirms January 2026 Take-Off
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed that Nigeria’s newly enacted tax reform laws will take effect as scheduled on January 1, 2026, dismissing speculations about a possible delay, reversal, or fundamental alteration of the reforms.
In a statement personally signed and issued on Tuesday, the President said the Federal Government has identified “no substantial issues” in the alleged alterations to the gazetted tax laws that would warrant suspending or disrupting their implementation.
According to Tinubu, the tax reform programme some aspects of which already came into force on June 26, 2025, with others slated for next year remains firmly on course. He described the reforms as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to overhaul Nigeria’s fiscal framework and position the country for long-term economic stability.
“The reforms are designed to establish a fair, competitive, and resilient tax system,” the President said, stressing that the new laws are not intended to impose additional tax burdens on ordinary Nigerians.
Tinubu explained that the new tax regime is aimed at driving structural reforms, promoting harmonisation across Nigeria’s fragmented tax system, protecting human dignity, and strengthening the social contract between the government and citizens. He noted that the reform agenda has now moved beyond legislation into the critical delivery and implementation phase.
Amid ongoing public debate and concerns over reported amendments to certain provisions of the laws after gazetting, the President cautioned against what he described as “premature and reactive decisions.”
He argued that sustainable governance and public trust are built through consistency, adherence to due process, and well-considered actions over time.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s respect for the sanctity of enacted legislation and pledged continued collaboration with the National Assembly to swiftly address any technical or operational issues that may arise during implementation.
Tinubu further assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would continue to act in the overriding public interest, with a focus on building a tax system that promotes economic growth, fairness, and shared responsibility across all sectors of the country.
He urged stakeholders, including businesses, tax authorities, and civil society groups, to support the implementation process, noting that successful execution of the reforms is essential to improving revenue mobilisation, reducing inefficiencies, and strengthening Nigeria’s overall economic outlook.
