The Budget Office of the Federation has urged Nigerians to be cautious of unverified claims and speculation surrounding the country’s newly enacted tax laws, which are set to take effect on January 1, 2026. In a statement issued on Wednesday, Director-General Tanimu Yakubu reaffirmed the integrity of the tax reforms, emphasizing the need for accurate information to maintain public trust.
The Budget Office warned that the spread of unsubstantiated information could undermine democratic governance and erode public confidence, which is often difficult to rebuild once lost. Authorities remain committed to transparency and accountability, stressing that governance and reform should not be stalled by unresolved conjecture. The office emphasized that a nation cannot be governed by insinuation or sustained on circulating documents of uncertain origin.
The warning comes amid growing opposition to the tax laws, with the Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives, former Senate Leader Ali Ndume, and the Nigeria Labour Congress calling for their suspension. Despite the opposition, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has maintained that the new tax laws will be implemented as planned on January 1, 2026.
The tax reforms aim to enhance revenue generation and promote economic growth. However, concerns have been raised about their potential impact on businesses and individuals. The Budget Office’s statement seeks to reassure the public that the reforms are designed to promote transparency and accountability, and that the government is committed to implementing them in a fair and equitable manner.
As the implementation of the tax laws approaches, the government faces the challenge of balancing the need for revenue generation with the concerns of various stakeholders. The Budget Office’s warning highlights the importance of relying on verified information and avoiding speculation, which can create uncertainty and undermine public trust. With the tax laws set to take effect in a few days, the government’s ability to address concerns and provide clarity will be crucial in ensuring a smooth implementation process.
