By Gabriel Ameh
The Federal Government of Nigeria has dismissed widespread reports claiming that it has introduced or is planning new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products, describing the information as false and misleading.
According to the government, the reports were based on a misinterpretation of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Article IV Consultation Report on Nigeria. It stressed that recommendations contained in the IMF report do not amount to government policy and are not binding on the country.
In a statement issued by the Head of Information and Public Relations Unit at the Federal Ministry of Finance, Efe Ovuakporie, the government clarified that all tax-related decisions in Nigeria must pass through established constitutional and legislative procedures and must align with national economic priorities.
The statement further reaffirmed that the Value Added Tax (VAT) waiver on petroleum products remains in effect and has not been withdrawn. It also noted that although existing laws provide for a potential fuel surcharge, such a measure can only be activated through a ministerial order and official publication in the government gazette.
It added that no such process is currently under consideration.
The Federal Government explained that maintaining the suspension of such charges has helped reduce the impact of global energy price fluctuations on households and businesses, while also supporting relative stability in domestic fuel prices.
On telecommunications taxation, the government clarified that the excise duty previously introduced before 2023 has already been repealed under the new tax framework and is no longer in force.
Ovuakporie urged Nigerians to disregard reports suggesting fresh taxes on telecom services or petroleum products, describing them as inaccurate and unfounded.
He reiterated that the government’s current reform agenda is focused on expanding economic growth, improving revenue administration, attracting investment, and creating jobs not increasing the tax burden on citizens.
“The emphasis remains on expanding economic activity, plugging leakages and improving efficiency rather than placing additional tax burdens on citizens,” the statement added.
The government assured that any future tax policy changes would be communicated through official channels and implemented strictly in line with the law.
