By Paschal Madu
The Federal Government has dismissed reports suggesting that it has approved or is considering the introduction of new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products, describing such claims as inaccurate and a misrepresentation of recommendations contained in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Article IV Consultation Report on Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Head of Information and Public Relations Unit of the Federal Ministry of Finance, Efe Ovuakporie, the Government clarified that the IMF report contains the Fund’s assessment of Nigeria’s economy and policy recommendations for consideration, but does not constitute government policy or binding directives.
According to the statement, decisions relating to taxation are made through established constitutional and legislative processes and are guided by national priorities as well as prevailing economic realities.
The Government specifically refuted claims that new taxes would be imposed on fuel and telecommunications services, stressing that no such measures are under consideration.
It explained that the Value Added Tax (VAT) waiver on petroleum products remains in effect and has not been withdrawn. The statement also noted that while existing legislation provides for a fuel surcharge, its implementation would require a ministerial order and publication in the Official Gazette, a process that has not been initiated.
The continued suspension of such charges, the Government said, has helped cushion the impact of global energy price fluctuations on households and businesses while maintaining relative stability in domestic fuel prices.
The Ministry further clarified that the telecommunications excise duty introduced before 2023 has already been repealed under the country’s new tax laws and is therefore no longer applicable.
“Reports claiming that new taxes are being planned for telecommunications services or petroleum products are not factual and should be disregarded,” the statement said.
The Government reiterated its commitment to economic reforms aimed at promoting growth, improving revenue administration, and creating a more competitive environment for investment and job creation.
Rather than imposing additional burdens on citizens, the Government said its focus remains on expanding economic activity, plugging revenue leakages, and improving efficiency across key sectors of the economy.
It assured Nigerians that any future tax measures would be communicated through official channels and implemented strictly in accordance with the law.