• Photo: President Bola Tinubu, flanks by Zaach Adedeji Chairman of NRS; Taiwo Oyedele, chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms (credit: State House)
President Bola Tinubu has ordered the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), formerly the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to implement the new tax laws effective January 1, 2026, as planned.
This was in spite of the recent public calls for its suspension due to alleged alterations with some provisions in the laws after it had been passed by the Senate.
In a statement , ‘NEW TAX LAWS WILL COMMENCE ON JANUARY 1’, 2026 AS PLANNED,” President Tinubu said that the new tax laws, including those that took effect on June 26, 2025, and the remaining acts scheduled to commence on January 1, 2026, will continue as planned.
The statement reads:” These reforms are a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal foundation for our country.
The tax laws are not designed to raise taxes, but rather to support a structural reset, drive harmonisation, and protect dignity while strengthening the social contract.
I urge all stakeholders to support the implementation phase, which is now firmly in the delivery stage.
Our administration is aware of the public discourse surrounding alleged changes to some provisions of the recently enacted tax laws.
No substantial issue has been established that warrants a disruption of the reform process. Absolute trust is built over time through making the right decisions, not through premature, reactive measures. I emphasise our administration’s unwavering commitment to due process and the integrity of enacted laws.
The Presidency pledges to work with the National Assembly to ensure the swift resolution of any issue identified. I assure all Nigerians that the Federal Government will continue to act in the overriding public interest to ensure a tax system that supports prosperity and shared responsibility.”
