The Federal Government has dismissed reports claiming it is planning to introduce new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products. It said the information being circulated is incorrect and does not reflect its current fiscal direction.
In a statement released on June 16, 2026, by the Senior Special Assistant on Communications and Press Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Maryann Duke, the government explained that comments attributed to the International Monetary Fund Article IV Consultation Report were being misinterpreted.
The government stated that suggestions contained in IMF reports do not automatically become government policy and are not binding on Nigeria. It added that any tax decision must pass through proper constitutional, legislative, and institutional procedures before adoption.
It also clarified that there are no plans to impose any new tax on telecom services or petroleum products. According to the government, the Value Added Tax waiver on fuel is still active and has not been removed.
The statement further noted that although existing laws mention a possible fuel surcharge, it can only take effect through an official ministerial order and publication in the government gazette, which is not being considered.
On telecommunications taxes, the government said the excise duty introduced before 2023 has already been removed under new tax laws and is no longer in force.
It urged Nigerians, businesses, and media organisations to ignore reports suggesting new tax measures on telecoms or fuel.
It also restated that ongoing tax reforms are aimed at improving revenue administration, supporting economic activity, and encouraging investment rather than increasing the tax burden on citizens.
The government added that any future tax changes will be communicated through official channels and implemented according to due process.
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