The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has announced plans to hold a nationwide protest on January 14, 2026, in response to the implementation of new tax laws. The students’ union argues that the reforms could exacerbate economic hardship for students and millions of Nigerians.
In a statement released on Wednesday, NANS President Comrade Olushola Oladoja expressed dissatisfaction with the federal government’s handling of the tax reform. He criticized the government’s advisers for providing what he termed “misguided advice,” which could lead to unnecessary national tension. Oladoja also faulted the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, for failing to manage stakeholder engagement and consultations effectively before the policy’s rollout.
The NANS president warned that inadequate consultation and a poor implementation strategy could undermine gains recorded in other sectors of the economy. He noted that commencing the Tax Reform Law on January 1, 2026, contradicts democratic principles and participatory governance. Oladoja emphasized that major policies should not be imposed without broad public consent, citing concerns raised by the National Assembly over discrepancies in the gazetted version of the law.
Civil society organizations, youth groups, and other student bodies have called for the suspension of the policy pending greater transparency and public sensitization. In response, NANS has declared January 14, 2026, a National Day of Action, directing all chapters, state councils, and zonal coordinators to mobilize for peaceful protests nationwide, including marches to the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The planned protest highlights the need for the government to engage with stakeholders and ensure that policies are implemented transparently and inclusively. As the new tax laws begin to take effect, the government faces growing pressure to address concerns about their potential impact on the economy and citizens’ welfare. The outcome of the protest and the government’s response will be closely watched, as it may set a precedent for future policy decisions and the role of civil society in shaping Nigeria’s economic agenda.
Comments are closed for this story.