Tinubu Insists New Tax Laws Begin January 2026, Rules Out Delay

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed that Nigeria’s new tax laws will take effect as scheduled, dismissing calls for any delay amid public debate over the recently enacted reforms.

In a State House press statement released on Tuesday, the President said all tax laws already in force since June 26, 2025, as well as those billed to commence on January 1, 2026, “will continue as planned,” describing the reforms as a critical step in reshaping the country’s fiscal future.

Tinubu said the measures represent “a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal foundation for our country,” stressing that the objective is not to impose additional burdens on citizens.

According to him, “the tax laws are not designed to raise taxes, but rather to support a structural reset, drive harmonization, and protect dignity while strengthening the social contract.”

The President urged key stakeholders to rally behind the next phase of the process, noting that implementation has now moved decisively into delivery. “I urge all stakeholders to support the implementation phase, which is now firmly in the delivery stage,” he said.

Addressing concerns over alleged alterations to some provisions of the laws, Tinubu acknowledged the ongoing public discourse but maintained that no issue has been identified that justifies halting the reforms.

“No substantial issue has been established that warrants a disruption of the reform process,” he said, adding that confidence in governance is built through consistency rather than haste. “Absolute trust is built over time through making the right decisions, not through premature, reactive measures.”

The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to due process, emphasising respect for legislative integrity and constitutional order. He said the Presidency would continue to engage with lawmakers to resolve any concerns that may arise, stating that the government is “unwaveringly committed to due process and the integrity of enacted laws.”

Tinubu assured Nigerians that the reforms are being pursued with the broader public interest in mind. “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,” he said.

The directive effectively confirms that the tax reform agenda will proceed without interruption, with full implementation expected to begin nationwide on January 1, 2026.