FG Speaks Out, Denies Introducing New Telecom And Fuel Taxes On Nigerians

The Federal Government has dismissed reports alleging that it has introduced or is planning to impose new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products in Nigeria.

It clarified that such claims, suggesting new tax measures on telecom services and fuel, are inaccurate and should be disregarded.

The clarification comes in response to interpretations of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Article IV Consultation Report on Nigeria.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Head of the Information and Public Relations Unit at the Ministry of Finance, Efe Ovuakporie, the government stressed that IMF recommendations are not binding on Nigeria.

He added that attempts to present the IMF report as an indication of a new tax regime by the Federal Government amount to a misrepresentation of its contents.

According to the statement, the IMF report reflects an independent assessment of Nigeria’s economy along with policy suggestions, which do not automatically translate into government decisions.

“The IMF Article IV Consultation Report contains the Fund’s assessment of Nigeria’s economy as well as recommendations for consideration by the authorities.

“These recommendations do not amount to government policy and are not binding on Nigeria. Decisions on tax matters are taken through established constitutional and legislative processes and are guided by national priorities and prevailing economic realities,” the statement read.

The government further reaffirmed that the Value Added Tax (VAT) waiver on petroleum products remains in effect and has not been removed.

It also explained that although existing laws provide for a fuel surcharge, its implementation requires a formal ministerial order and publication in the Official Gazette, none of which has been initiated.

“No such process is under consideration,” it stated.

According to the statement, maintaining the suspension of such charges has helped cushion the impact of global energy price fluctuations on households and businesses, while contributing to relative stability in domestic fuel prices.

The government also clarified that the telecommunications excise duty introduced prior to 2023 has been repealed under new tax legislation and is no longer in force.

It added that government policy remains focused on strengthening economic growth, improving tax administration, reducing leakages, and creating an enabling environment for investment and job creation, rather than imposing additional tax burdens on citizens.

It further assured that any future tax measures will be formally communicated through official channels and implemented strictly in accordance with the law.

“The emphasis remains on expanding economic activity, plugging leakages and improving efficiency rather than placing additional tax burdens on citizens.

“Any future tax measures will be announced through official channels and implemented in line with the law,” the statement added.