The federal government has dismissed reports claiming it is considering the introduction of new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products, insisting that no such measures are under consideration.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Senior Special Assistant on Communications and Press Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Maryann Duke, the government described the reports as misleading and inconsistent with its current fiscal policy direction.
According to the statement, the confusion stemmed from interpretations of recommendations contained in the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Article IV Consultation Report, which some observers allegedly misconstrued as government policy.
The government clarified that recommendations made by the IMF do not automatically become policy and are not binding on Nigeria.
It explained that any policy decision by the federal government must pass through established constitutional, legislative and institutional procedures, while also reflecting the country’s economic realities and development priorities.
“The federal government is not considering the introduction of any new taxes on telecommunications services or petroleum products,” the statement said.
Addressing concerns over fuel taxation, the government noted that the Value Added Tax (VAT) waiver currently applicable to petroleum products remains in effect and has not been withdrawn.
It further explained that while existing legislation provides for a possible fuel surcharge, such a measure can only be activated through a ministerial order and formal publication in the Official Gazette.
The government stressed that no such process is currently being considered.
According to the statement, the continued suspension of certain taxes has helped mitigate the impact of fluctuations in global energy prices on Nigerians by keeping domestic fuel costs below prevailing international and regional rates.
The government also clarified that the telecommunications excise duty introduced before 2023 is no longer in force, having been repealed under Nigeria’s new tax laws.
“The telecommunications excise duty introduced prior to 2023 has been repealed under the new tax laws and is therefore no longer applicable,” the statement added.
The federal government urged citizens, businesses, media organisations and other stakeholders to disregard reports suggesting that fresh taxes would be imposed on telecom services or petroleum products.
Reaffirming its commitment to economic growth and fiscal transparency, the government said its ongoing tax and fiscal reforms are aimed at improving revenue administration, stimulating investment, reducing inefficiencies and creating jobs rather than increasing the burden on taxpayers.
It added that any future tax policy adjustments, if necessary, would be communicated through official channels and implemented in accordance with due process and existing laws.
