The Federal Government on Tuesday dismissed reports suggesting plans to introduce new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products in Nigeria.
In a statement issued by Maryann Duke, Senior Special Assistant on Communications and Press Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, the government said the claims were misleading and did not reflect its official position.
The statement explained that recent reports linking Nigeria’s tax policy direction to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Article IV Consultation Report had been misinterpreted.
It stressed that IMF recommendations are advisory in nature and do not represent binding decisions or policy actions of the Nigerian government.
The government further clarified that there are currently no plans to introduce new taxes on telecom services or petroleum products.
It also noted that the Value Added Tax (VAT) waiver on fuel remains in place, while the fuel surcharge provision in law cannot be implemented without a formal ministerial order and official gazette publication—neither of which is being considered at this time.
On telecoms, the statement added that the excise duty previously introduced before 2023 has already been repealed under new tax legislation and is no longer in effect.
The Federal Government urged Nigerians, media organisations, and stakeholders to disregard reports suggesting new tax introductions, adding that its focus remains on economic stability, improved revenue administration, and investment-friendly reforms rather than increasing the tax burden on citizens.
It assured that any future tax policy changes would be communicated through official channels and implemented strictly according to due process.
