*The Nigerian Government states the emphasis remains on expanding economic activity, plugging leakages and improving efficiency rather than placing additional tax burdens on consumers, dismissing the recent reports suggesting that it has adopted, or is considering new taxes on telecoms services and petroleum products
Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect
The Nigerian Government has said recent reports suggesting that it adopted, or is considering new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products in the economy are mere falsehoods, and misleading consumers.
The government noted the unfounded claims followed the recent publication of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Article IV Consultation Report on Nigeria.
The Federal Government also emphasised the said misleading reports misrepresented the content of the IMF report, and did not reflect its policy direction.
Reacting to claims in the said media reports, Efe Ovuakporie, Head of Information and Public Relations Unit in the Ministry, Tuesday, June 16, 2026, stated: “The IMF Article IV Consultation Report contains the Fund’s assessment of Nigeria’s economy as well as recommendations for consideration by the authorities.
“Those recommendations do not amount to government policy, and are not binding on Nigeria.”
The government also noted that decisions on tax matters are taken “through established constitutional and legislative processes and are guided by national priorities and prevailing economic realities.”
The statement noted the Federal Government clarified that the Value Added Tax (VAT) waiver on petroleum products is still operational, and has not been withdrawn.
The government explained although existing legislation provides for a fuel surcharge, such a measure could only take effect through a ministerial order and publication in the Official Gazette.
The Nigerian Government restated: “No such process is under consideration.
“The continued suspension of these charges has helped cushion the effect of global energy price fluctuations on households and businesses while keeping domestic fuel prices relatively stable.”
The Government further clarified that the telecommunications excise duty introduced before 2023 has been repealed under the new tax laws and is, therefore, no longer applicable.
Ovuakporie further said: “Against this backdrop, reports claiming that new taxes are being planned for telecommunications services or petroleum products are not factual and should be disregarded.
The Federal Government remains focused on reforms that promote economic growth, improve revenue administration and create a more competitive environment for investment and job creation.
The Head of Information and Public Relations Unit stated: “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.”