A coalition of 48 federal lawmakers, civil society organisations (CSOs), tax experts, and legal practitioners has scheduled high-level stakeholder engagements in Enugu and Kano states this month to promote understanding, monitor implementation, and build national support for Nigeria's newly introduced tax regime.
The roundtable discussions, themed “Door to Economic Revolution Comes with Temporary Discomfort but Sustainable Development and Gains,” are set for January 17 in Enugu (South-East) and January 19 in Kano (North-West).
Organisers said the meetings aim to foster consensus, enhance public awareness, and strengthen cooperation among institutions as the country begins full implementation of four new tax laws effective from January 1, 2026.
Convener and House of Representatives member, Hon. Midala Usman, told journalists that the initiative brings together lawmakers from across political parties, professional bodies, youth groups, small business representatives, and other stakeholders.
He emphasised that the reforms are designed to create a fairer, more predictable tax system while protecting vulnerable groups.
“These new laws provide over 50 exemptions and reliefs specifically for low-income earners, average taxpayers, and small businesses,” Usman stated.
The four landmark legislations are:
- Nigeria Tax Act, 2025 (NTA)
- Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025 (NTAA)
- Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, 2025 (NRSEA)
- Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act, 2025 (JRBEA)
Usman described the reforms as essential for fixing Nigeria's revenue structure, reducing borrowing, funding infrastructure, and achieving long-term economic prosperity, adding that they represent a national project beyond partisan politics.
Enugu and Kano were chosen to ensure regional balance and demonstrate the inclusive nature of the process.
Key discussion areas will include tax fairness, protection for low-income groups, simplified compliance for SMEs, elimination of multiple taxation, legal safeguards, and accountability in revenue utilisation.
The forums will also allow citizens to voice concerns and suggest solutions.Representing the CSOs, Mr Meliga Godwin stressed the importance of transparency and civic education in building public trust and voluntary compliance.
Legal experts, including Barrister A. Usman and Barrister Anderson Achilike, pledged to review the legal frameworks, guide on compliance and dispute resolution, and ensure taxpayers' rights are protected under the rule of law.
The coalition rejected claims of misinformation aimed at undermining the reforms, urging Nigerians to engage constructively through dialogue rather than confrontation.
At the conclusion of the meetings, participants plan to release a communiqué with recommendations, monitoring frameworks, and timelines for ongoing engagement with government agencies.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to policies that bolster economic independence, expand social investments, and secure a prosperous future for Nigerians.
