Debate Rages As Tinubu Defends Fresh Tax Laws Introduced By His Government
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President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday in Abuja defended his administration’s new tax reforms, stating that outdated colonial-era tax laws had long weakened the economy through fragmentation, duplication, and inconsistencies, while assuring that the new system would promote prosperity and inclusiveness.
Speaking at the commissioning of the 16-storey Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) headquarters, Tinubu said the reformed tax framework is designed to be people-focused and attractive to investors, aligning with Nigeria’s broader development goals.
According to a statement by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the President explained that the new tax laws, which took full effect in January 2026, aim to free the economy from outdated structures and position it for global competitiveness.
Tinubu recalled his inauguration pledge to stabilise the economy and address structural challenges, stressing that his administration is committed to building a system rooted in fairness, discipline, and opportunity.
He praised the Executive Chairman of the NRS, Dr. Zacch Adedeji, for his leadership and for overseeing the completion of the headquarters, which now houses over 3,000 staff and includes facilities such as a data centre, clinic, auditorium, training rooms, gym, and library.
The President noted that the building was completed within 30 months, decades after its foundation was first laid, describing it as a symbol of progress in strengthening Nigeria’s fiscal system and restoring confidence in public institutions.
He emphasised that no country can achieve sustainable growth with a weak and inefficient revenue system, adding that the reforms were necessary to ensure transparency, fairness, and efficiency in taxation.
Tinubu also commended the Minister of State for Finance, Taiwo Oyedele, for helping to modernise the old tax framework into a more practical and understandable system.
Addressing public concerns, the President assured that the NRS has been repositioned as a modern revenue institution driven by technology, data, and sensitivity to citizens’ needs, especially the vulnerable.
He said the reforms are intended to simplify taxation, eliminate inefficiencies, and create a transparent environment that supports business growth and national development.
According to him, early indicators show improvements in fiscal stability, foreign reserves, trade efficiency, and investor confidence.
Tinubu described these gains as the result of deliberate policy choices and sustained efforts, adding that the new NRS headquarters represents a commitment to professionalism, transparency, and improved service delivery.
He urged the agency’s leadership to maintain high standards, build public trust, and ensure fairness in revenue collection, stressing that the institution must serve as a model of accountability and efficiency.
