FG Refutes Reports of New Telecoms, Fuel Taxes, Reaffirms Consumer Relief Measures
Oru Leonard
The Federal Government of Nigeria has dismissed reports suggesting that it has introduced or is considering new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products, describing the claims as false and misleading.
The government said the reports stemmed from a misinterpretation of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Article IV Consultation Report on Nigeria, stressing that the recommendations contained in the report do not constitute government policy and are not binding on the country.
In a statement issued by the Head of Information and Public Relations Unit of the Federal Ministry of Finance, Efe Ovuakporie, the government clarified that tax-related decisions are only taken through constitutional and legislative processes and are guided by national economic priorities.
The statement reaffirmed that the Value Added Tax (VAT) waiver on petroleum products remains in force and has not been withdrawn. It also noted that although existing laws provide for a possible fuel surcharge, such a measure can only be implemented through a ministerial order and official gazette publication.
According to the government, no such process is currently being considered.
The Federal Government explained that maintaining the suspension of such charges has helped cushion the impact of global energy price fluctuations on households and businesses while keeping domestic fuel prices relatively stable.
It also clarified that the telecommunications excise duty introduced before 2023 has been repealed under the country’s new tax laws and is no longer applicable.
Ovuakporie urged the public to disregard reports alleging plans to impose fresh taxes on telecom services or petroleum products, describing them as inaccurate and unfounded.
He reiterated that the government’s reform agenda is focused on stimulating economic growth, improving revenue administration, attracting investment and creating jobs rather than increasing the tax burden on citizens.
“The emphasis remains on expanding economic activity, plugging leakages and improving efficiency rather than placing additional tax burdens on citizens,” the statement said.
The government assured Nigerians that any future tax measures would be communicated through official channels and implemented strictly in accordance with the law.
