President Bola Tinubi confirms January 1, 2026 rollout for new tax regime
The President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed that Nigeria’s newly enacted tax laws will commence fully on January 1, 2026, as earlier scheduled, dismissing speculations about possible delays or reversals.
In a statement he personally signed on Tuesday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said the tax reforms, including those that already took effect on June 26, 2025, remain on course and are now in the implementation phase.
According to the President, the reforms represent a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to establish a fair, competitive and resilient fiscal framework for the country. He stressed that the new tax regime is not intended to impose additional tax burdens on Nigerians, but to achieve a structural reset, promote harmonisation across the system, and strengthen the social contract between the government and citizens.
“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,” Tinubu said.
The President acknowledged ongoing public debates and concerns over alleged changes to some provisions of the laws, but maintained that no substantial issues have been identified that would justify disrupting the reform process.
“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,” he stated.
Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to due process and respect for the integrity of enacted legislation, assuring Nigerians that the Presidency would work closely with the National Assembly to promptly address any issues that may arise during implementation.
He urged all stakeholders to support the delivery phase of the reforms, assuring that the Federal Government would continue to act in the overriding public interest to ensure a tax system that promotes prosperity and shared responsibility.
