The Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, has warned that the planned January 2026 rollout of Nigeria’s new tax laws could be delayed, as lawmakers raise concerns over alleged alterations to the bills passed by the National Assembly.
Oyedele said some members of the legislature have expressed dissatisfaction with what they described as changes to the final versions of the tax reform bills, warning that the controversy could stall implementation if not urgently resolved.
According to him, the success of the reforms depends on strict adherence to due legislative process and the preservation of the intent of lawmakers, stressing that any perceived tampering with the laws after passage could undermine confidence and trigger resistance within the National Assembly.
He explained that ongoing engagements are aimed at reconciling the differences and ensuring that the enacted laws accurately reflect what was approved by both chambers before being transmitted for presidential assent.
Oyedele noted that the tax reforms are critical to expanding Nigeria’s revenue base, improving compliance, and reducing the burden on low-income earners, adding that delays in implementation could slow fiscal consolidation efforts.
He urged all stakeholders, including lawmakers, the executive and relevant agencies, to work collaboratively to resolve the issues ahead of the January 2026 timeline, warning that failure to do so may force legislators to suspend or amend the rollout schedule.
The federal government has consistently maintained that the tax reform agenda is designed to simplify the tax system, eliminate multiple taxation and support economic growth, but the latest development highlights fresh legislative hurdles that could affect the implementation timeline.
