FG Breaks Silence: No New Telecom, Fuel Taxes On Nigerians

The Federal Government has dismissed reports suggesting it has introduced or is considering new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products, describing such claims as inaccurate and misleading.

According to official information made available by the Ministry of Finance, the reports emerged following the release of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Article IV Consultation Report on Nigeria but do not reflect the government’s policy direction.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Head of the Ministry’s Information and Public Relations Unit, Efe Ovuakporie, explained that the IMF report merely provides an assessment of Nigeria’s economy and offers recommendations that are entirely advisory and not binding on the country.

The ministry stressed that portraying the IMF’s recommendations as an indication of a fresh tax regime is a misrepresentation of the report’s contents. It noted that decisions on taxation are made through constitutional and legislative processes while taking into account national priorities and prevailing economic conditions.

The government also reaffirmed that the Value Added Tax (VAT) waiver on petroleum products remains in effect and has not been withdrawn. It further clarified that although existing laws provide for a possible fuel surcharge, such a measure can only be activated through a ministerial order and publication in the Official Gazette, adding that no such process is currently being considered.

Officials maintained that keeping these charges suspended has helped reduce the impact of global energy price fluctuations on households and businesses while supporting relatively stable domestic fuel prices.

On telecommunications, the ministry stated that the excise duty introduced before 2023 has already been repealed under the country’s new tax laws and is therefore no longer applicable.

The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to implementing reforms aimed at stimulating economic growth, improving revenue administration, attracting investment, and creating employment opportunities. It emphasized that its priority is to expand economic activity, eliminate revenue leakages, and enhance efficiency rather than impose additional tax burdens on citizens.

The ministry assured Nigerians that any future tax policies would be communicated through official government channels and implemented strictly in accordance with the law.