Federal Government says it has no plans to impose new telecoms or fuel taxes on Nigerians despite IMF recommendations.
The Federal Government has dismissed reports suggesting it plans to introduce new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products, describing such claims as inaccurate and inconsistent with its current policy direction.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the government said recent media reports linking proposed tax measures to recommendations contained in the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Article IV Consultation Report on Nigeria had misrepresented its position.
According to the statement signed by Maryann Duke, Senior Special Assistant on Communications and Press Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, the government is not considering any new taxes on telecommunications services or petroleum products.
“The claims are inaccurate and do not reflect the position of the government,” the statement said.
The government clarified that the IMF report merely contains policy assessments and recommendations for consideration and does not constitute binding decisions on Nigeria.
It stressed that all fiscal policy decisions are subject to constitutional, legislative, and institutional processes and must align with national priorities and prevailing economic realities.
On petroleum products, the government said the Value Added Tax (VAT) waiver currently applicable to fuel remains in force and has not been withdrawn.
It also clarified that although existing legislation provides for a fuel surcharge, such a measure can only take effect through a specific ministerial order and publication in the Official Gazette.
“No such action is being contemplated at this time,” the statement noted.
The government added that maintaining the suspension of certain fuel-related taxes has helped moderate domestic fuel prices, cushioning households and businesses from the impact of global energy market disruptions.
Regarding telecommunications services, the statement explained that the telecommunications excise duty introduced before 2023 has been repealed under Nigeria’s new tax laws and is no longer applicable.
The government, therefore, urged the public, businesses, media organizations, and other stakeholders to disregard reports suggesting that new taxes on telecom services or fuel products are being planned.
Reaffirming its commitment to economic reforms, the government said its focus remains on improving revenue administration, expanding economic activity, reducing inefficiencies, and creating a more attractive environment for investment and job creation rather than increasing the tax burden on citizens.
