The Federal Government has dismissed reports suggesting that it is planning to introduce new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products, saying no such policy is currently under consideration.
- +FG rules out new taxes on telecom services, petroleum products
The clarification followed public concerns and interpretations of recent discussions around Nigeria’s tax reforms and recommendations contained in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Article IV Consultation Report.
The clarification followed public concerns and interpretations of recent discussions around Nigeria’s tax reforms and recommendations contained in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Article IV Consultation Report.
In a statement on Wednesday, Maryann Duke, senior special assistant on communications and press secretary to the minister of finance and coordinating minister of the economy, said reports suggesting the plans or adoption of new taxes were inaccurate.
“The claims are inaccurate and do not reflect the position of the Government,” the statement reads.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Federal Government is not considering the introduction of any new taxes on telecommunications services or petroleum products.”
According to the presidency, existing measures affecting fuel and telecom services remain unchanged. It noted that the Value Added Tax (VAT) waiver on petroleum products is still in place, while the fuel surcharge contained in legislation would require a specific ministerial order and publication in the Official Gazette before implementation.
The government also clarified that the telecommunications excise duty introduced earlier has been removed under the new tax laws and is no longer applicable.
It urged Nigerians, businesses and media organisations to disregard reports claiming that fresh taxes on telecom services or petroleum products are being planned.
The clarification comes amid ongoing reforms aimed at restructuring Nigeria’s tax system, with the government maintaining that future tax policy changes will follow due process and be communicated through official channels.
The Federal Government has previously stated that its focus is on improving tax administration and collection efficiency rather than increasing the tax burden on citizens.
