Tinubu Stands Firm: New Tax Regime Takes Off January 1, 2026
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed that Nigeria’s newly reformed tax laws will come into force on January 1, 2026, despite growing criticism and public debate.
In a statement issued late Monday, December 30, the President described the reforms as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to lay a fair, competitive and resilient fiscal foundation for the country.
Tinubu said the tax overhaul some of which already took effect on June 26, 2025 will proceed as scheduled, stressing that there is no justification to halt or reverse the process.
According to him, the new tax laws are not designed to increase the tax burden on Nigerians but to drive a structural reset, harmonise existing frameworks, protect citizens’ dignity and strengthen the social contract.
“I urge all stakeholders to support the implementation phase, which is now firmly in the delivery stage,” the President said.
Addressing concerns over alleged changes to some provisions of the laws, Tinubu noted that no substantial issues have been identified to warrant a disruption of the reform process, warning against “premature, reactive measures.”
He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to due process and the sanctity of enacted laws, pledging to work with the National Assembly to swiftly resolve any genuine concerns.
Tinubu assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would continue to act in the overriding public interest to build a tax system that promotes prosperity, fairness and shared responsibility.
