Nigeria’s sweeping tax reform agenda will proceed as planned, with full implementation set for January 1, 2026, and no reversal in sight, despite concerns raised by some stakeholders. This assurance was given by Prof. Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, after briefing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Lagos.
Oyedele said the meeting with the President focused on the level of preparedness and progress made in implementing the four landmark tax reform laws recently signed into law, stressing that the reforms are critical to fixing long-standing structural weaknesses in Nigeria’s fiscal system. According to him, the administration remains committed to building a fair, efficient and growth-supporting tax framework, adding that “there is no going back on the reforms.”
He disclosed that two of the four laws — the Nigerian Revenue Service (Establishment) Act and the Joint Revenue Service (Establishment) Act — have already taken effect from June 26, 2025. The remaining two laws are progressing steadily towards their full operationalisation by January 1, 2026, as scheduled.
Oyedele explained that extensive stakeholder engagements, system upgrades, capacity building and institutional coordination are ongoing to ensure a smooth transition. He noted that while concerns have been expressed by sections of the public and business community, the government is addressing them through consultations and clear communication, without altering the core objectives or timelines of the reforms.
According to him, the reforms are designed to simplify Nigeria’s tax system, eliminate inefficiencies, reduce multiple taxation, strengthen revenue administration, and ensure that the burden of taxation is more equitable. He added that the ultimate goal is to grow government revenue sustainably without stifling businesses or overburdening ordinary Nigerians.
President Tinubu, Oyedele said, reiterated his full support for the reforms and directed that implementation should remain people-focused, transparent and consistent with the administration’s broader economic reform agenda. The President, he added, emphasized that a predictable and credible tax system is essential for restoring investor confidence and funding critical development priorities.
With the January 1, 2026 launch date firmly in view, Oyedele assured Nigerians that all hands are on deck to ensure successful execution, declaring that the tax reforms represent a decisive step forward for the country’s economic future — and that there will be no retreat.