FG Raises Alarm Over Alleged Plot to Undermine New Tax Reforms

The Federal Government has raised serious concerns about an alleged attempt to frustrate the implementation of Nigeria’s newly signed tax reforms, warning that coordinated misinformation campaigns are being spread to undermine public trust in the policy.

The warning came during the inauguration of a Joint Committee involving the National Orientation Agency, NOA, and the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms in Abuja. The committee was established to ensure clear communication of the reforms, counter false narratives, and educate Nigerians on the objectives of the new tax framework.

Speaking at the event, Special Adviser to the President on Economic Affairs, Tope Fasua, accused unnamed actors of deliberately pushing misleading information to stall the reforms. He emphasized that these efforts go beyond ordinary criticism and constitute deliberate attempts to confuse Nigerians and weaken confidence in the policy.

“People are trying to ensure that, maybe, if they can manage to do it, the reforms do not succeed,” Fasua said.

He stressed that the new tax framework was designed with a pro-poor focus, aiming to protect low-income earners while strengthening national revenue. “This is a pro-poor policy, recalibrating the revenues of this country in a way that ensures the poorest Nigerians are not adversely affected, except positively,” Fasua added.

The newly inaugurated committee has been tasked with engaging citizens, clarifying misconceptions, and explaining the real intent of the reforms in accessible terms. It is expected to coordinate public outreach and address concerns raised by stakeholders, ensuring smooth implementation of the policy.

The alert from the Federal Government comes amid a heated political debate surrounding the reforms. Abdulsamman Dasuki, a member of the House of Representatives, recently alleged discrepancies between the versions of the tax bills passed by the National Assembly and the versions later gazetted for public use.

The National Assembly responded by acknowledging the concerns and assuring Nigerians that the matter would be investigated thoroughly while maintaining that legislative integrity would be upheld.

The new tax laws are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026. Government officials have described this timeline as necessary to allow for public sensitisation, alignment of agencies, and smooth transition for businesses and citizens.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed the bills into law in June 2025 as part of broader economic reforms aimed at boosting government revenue, reducing fiscal pressure, and ensuring a fairer taxation system across Nigeria.

With misinformation and political scrutiny surrounding the reforms, government officials are calling on citizens to stay informed and understand the objectives of the new tax framework.