The Federal Government has dismissed reports suggesting that it is considering new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products.
The clarification was contained in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja by the Head of Information and Public Relations in the Federal Ministry of Finance, Efe Ovuakporie.
The government said the reports misrepresented recommendations contained in the International Monetary Fund Article IV Consultation Report on Nigeria.
According to the statement, IMF recommendations are advisory and do not amount to government policy or binding obligations on Nigeria.
The Federal Government explained that tax decisions in Nigeria are made through constitutional and legislative processes and are guided by national priorities, economic realities and due process.
“The tax decisions in Nigeria are made through constitutional and legislative processes, guided by national priorities and economic realities,” the statement said.
The government also clarified that the Value Added Tax waiver on petroleum products remains in force and has not been withdrawn.
It added that no process is currently underway to activate any fuel surcharge provided for under existing legislation.
“No process is underway to activate any fuel surcharge provided for under existing legislation,” the government said.
It explained that any such surcharge would require a ministerial order and publication in the Official Gazette before implementation.
The government said the continued suspension of such charges had helped protect households and businesses from global energy price shocks.
It added that domestic fuel prices had remained relatively stable because of the continued waiver and suspension measures.
On telecommunications, the Federal Government said the excise duty on telecom services introduced before 2023 had already been repealed under the new tax laws.
It said the duty is no longer applicable, contrary to claims circulating in some reports.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to reforms aimed at supporting economic growth, improving revenue administration and attracting investment.
It added that any future tax measure, if introduced, would be announced through official channels and implemented strictly in accordance with the law.
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