The Federal Government has dismissed reports claiming it plans to introduce new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products, describing the claims as false and misleading.
The clarification comes in response to interpretations of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Article IV Consultation Report on Nigeria, which some reports linked to fresh tax proposals.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Finance, the government said IMF recommendations are advisory and not binding on Nigeria, stressing that they do not represent official policy.
It explained that tax decisions are made through established legal and constitutional processes, based on national priorities and current economic conditions.
The government also confirmed that the Value Added Tax (VAT) waiver on petroleum products remains in place and has not been removed.
It added that although there is a provision for a fuel surcharge under existing laws, it can only take effect through a ministerial order published in the Official Gazette—something that is not currently being considered.
According to the statement, the telecommunications excise duty introduced before 2023 has already been repealed under new tax legislation and is no longer in force.
The government reaffirmed its focus on reforms aimed at boosting economic growth, improving revenue collection efficiency, and attracting investment, while insisting that any future tax changes will be officially communicated to the public.
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