Joint Revenue Board Outlaws Road Taxes, Stickers, Illegal Checkpoints Nationwide
The Joint Revenue Board (JRB) has directed an immediate nationwide halt to the collection of road taxes, vehicle stickers and levies imposed through unauthorised checkpoints, marking a major step toward reforming Nigeria’s revenue administration and easing the burden on road users and businesses.
The decision was reached during the board’s recent statutory meeting in Abuja, where revenue authorities from across the federation reviewed the persistent challenges posed by uncoordinated tax collection and informal revenue practices.
According to the JRB, the widespread presence of illegal roadblocks and multiple levies has continued to distort transportation costs, encourage extortion and undermine confidence in the country’s tax system.
In a statement issued after the meeting, the board stressed that no individual, group, transport union or government agency is permitted to collect taxes or fees on highways without clear legal backing and approval through recognised revenue channels.
It described the use of vehicle stickers and ad-hoc road charges as outdated practices that contradict ongoing efforts to build a transparent, technology-driven tax structure.
The JRB explained that its mandate includes harmonising revenue policies among federal and state governments to prevent double taxation and revenue leakages.
Officials noted that the ban aligns with broader economic reforms designed to improve the movement of goods across state lines, reduce inflationary pressure linked to transport costs and promote a more business-friendly environment.
Security agencies and state governments have been instructed to dismantle all illegal checkpoints and prevent the re-emergence of roadside collections.
The board warned that officials found collaborating with unauthorised collectors would face disciplinary and legal consequences.
It also urged motorists and transport operators to refuse payments not supported by official documentation and to report such incidents through appropriate government channels.
Transporters and logistics operators have long complained that multiple checkpoints increase travel time and operational expenses, costs which are eventually passed on to consumers.
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the JRB’s intervention, saying it could significantly lower the cost of moving agricultural produce, manufactured goods and petroleum products across the country if properly enforced.
The board further announced plans to intensify public sensitisation campaigns to educate citizens on approved taxes and legitimate payment platforms.
By eliminating informal collections and strengthening oversight, the JRB said Nigeria can move closer to a fairer and more efficient revenue system that supports economic growth while protecting citizens from exploitation.
As implementation begins, all eyes will be on federal and state authorities to ensure that the directive translates into real change on Nigerian roads rather than remaining a policy statement without impact.
