Public anxiety over Nigeria’s new tax reforms is largely driven by misinformation and poor understanding, according to Sadiq Muhammad Mustapha of the Tax Justice and Governance Platform. He said the reforms mainly consolidate existing laws and are designed to reduce the burden on taxpayers, especially low-income earners.
Mustapha explained that many Nigerians are expected to pay less under the new framework, contrary to widespread fears. He outlined four key laws: the Nigerian Tax Administration Act, which regulates tax processes; the Nigerian Tax Act, which harmonises all taxes into a single framework to end multiple taxation; the Nigerian Revenue Service Act, which upgrades FIRS; and the Joint Revenue Board Act, which improves coordination and protects taxpayers’ rights.
He added that new grievance mechanisms, including a Tax Appeal Tribunal and an Ombudsman office, will ensure fairness. While labour unions have criticised the reforms, Mustapha insisted consultations were held and urged public education to dispel fear as implementation begins in 2026.
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