No substantial reason to stop new tax laws… January 1 commencement sacrosanct – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu says implementation of the tax reform laws will commence as scheduled on January 1, 2026.

In a statement on Tuesday, Tinubu said the reforms are a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal foundation, and they are not designed to raise taxes.

“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,” he said.

“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.”

While acknowledging the public outcry over alleged changes in the tax laws approved by the national assembly and the gazetted laws, Tinubu said there is no substantial reason not to implement the reforms.

“Our administration is aware of the public discourse surrounding alleged changes to some provisions of the recently enacted tax laws,” the president said.

“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.”

On December 17, Abdussamad Dasuki, member of the lower legislative chamber, alleged that there are differences between the tax reform laws passed by parliament and the gazetted copy available to the public.

Dasuki’s allegation led to a public outrage, with some Nigerians calling for a suspension of the implementation of the laws.

However, on December 26, the leadership of the senate and house of representatives directed Kamoru Ogunlana, clerk to the national assembly, to work with relevant agencies in the executive branch in a bid to re-gazette the tax laws.(The Cable)