The Federal Government has stated that it is not considering the introduction of new taxes on telecommunications services or petroleum products.
This clarification follows recent recommendations by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which advised Nigeria to extend value-added tax (VAT) to fuel products and introduce excise duties on telecommunications services to boost revenue and support development and social spending. In its 2026 Article IV consultation report, the IMF noted that ongoing tax reforms may be insufficient to sustain the government’s medium-term expenditure plans.
Responding to reports suggesting the adoption of such measures, Maryann Duke, Senior Special Assistant on Communications and Press Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, dismissed the claims as inaccurate.
“The claims are inaccurate and do not reflect the position of the Government,” she said. “For the avoidance of doubt, the Federal Government is not considering the introduction of any new taxes on telecommunications services or petroleum products.”
Duke further clarified that IMF Article IV consultation reports represent advisory assessments and policy recommendations, which are neither binding nor automatically adopted by the Nigerian government.
She emphasized that all fiscal policy decisions are subject to established constitutional, legislative, and institutional processes and are guided by national priorities and prevailing economic conditions.
On petroleum products, Duke noted that the current VAT waiver on fuel remains in place. She also explained that any fuel surcharge provided for under existing law would require a formal ministerial order and publication in the Official Gazette—steps that are not being contemplated at this time.
According to her, previously suspended taxes have helped keep domestic fuel prices relatively lower than international benchmarks and those of neighbouring countries, thereby cushioning the impact of global energy market disruptions on households and businesses.
Duke also clarified that the telecommunications excise duty introduced prior to 2023 has been repealed under the new tax framework and is no longer in effect.
She urged the public, media organisations, and other stakeholders to disregard reports suggesting that the government plans to introduce new taxes in these sectors.
Reaffirming the government’s position, Duke said it remains committed to a transparent, growth-oriented tax policy framework that promotes economic stability.
She added that the current focus of fiscal reforms is on improving revenue administration, expanding economic activity, eliminating inefficiencies, and creating a more competitive environment for investment and job creation—rather than increasing the tax burden on citizens.
Duke concluded by stating that any future tax policy changes, if necessary, would be communicated through official channels and implemented in accordance with due process and the law.
