The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that it has no plans to introduce new taxes on telecommunications services or petroleum products, dismissing reports suggesting otherwise.
The clarification followed public concerns sparked by recommendations contained in the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) latest Article IV Consultation Report on Nigeria.
In a statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Finance, the government stressed that the IMF’s recommendations do not represent official policy and are not binding on Nigeria.
According to the ministry, decisions on tax matters are made through established constitutional and legislative processes and must reflect the country’s economic realities and national priorities.
The government also confirmed that the existing Value Added Tax (VAT) waiver on petroleum products remains fully in place.
Officials noted that maintaining the waiver has helped cushion Nigerians from rising global energy prices and provided relief to households and businesses.
The statement further clarified that while existing laws provide room for a fuel surcharge, such a measure can only take effect through a ministerial order and official publication in the government gazette.
“No such process is under consideration,” the ministry stated.
On telecommunications services, the government revealed that the excise duty previously imposed on the sector before 2023 has already been repealed under new tax laws and is no longer applicable.
The clarification comes amid speculation that Nigeria could adopt some of the IMF’s revenue-raising recommendations, including extending VAT to petroleum products and introducing fresh telecom-related taxes.
However, the government insisted that its focus remains on improving revenue collection through efficiency, expanding economic activity, closing revenue leakages, and creating a better environment for businesses rather than increasing the tax burden on citizens.
“The Federal Government remains focused on reforms that promote economic growth, improve revenue administration and create a more competitive environment for investment and job creation,” the statement said.
Authorities also assured Nigerians that any future tax policy changes would be officially communicated and implemented in line with the law.
Source: Federal Ministry of Finance Statement.
