FG Debunks Reports of Fresh Fuel, Telecom Taxes, Reaffirms Commitment to Economic Relief
By Pan Afric Reporters
The Federal Government has firmly dismissed reports suggesting that it plans to introduce new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products, assuring Nigerians that no such measures are under consideration despite recent recommendations contained in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Article IV Consultation Report on Nigeria.
The government said the reports, which emerged following the publication of the IMF assessment, misrepresented the contents of the report and did not reflect Nigeria’s fiscal policy direction or tax plans.
According to a statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Finance and signed by Efe Ovuakporie, Head, Information and Public Relations Unit, the IMF’s recommendations are merely advisory and do not constitute government policy.
The Ministry clarified that decisions on taxation remain the exclusive responsibility of the Nigerian government and are made through established constitutional and legislative procedures guided by national priorities and prevailing economic realities.
“The IMF Article IV Consultation Report contains the Fund’s assessment of Nigeria’s economy as well as recommendations for consideration by the authorities. Those recommendations do not amount to government policy and are not binding on Nigeria,” the statement said.
Addressing concerns over fuel-related charges, the Federal Government reaffirmed that the Value Added Tax (VAT) waiver on petroleum products remains fully in effect and has not been withdrawn.
The Ministry also clarified reports surrounding a possible fuel surcharge, noting that although existing laws provide for such a measure, its implementation would require a formal ministerial order and publication in the Official Gazette—a process that is not currently being considered.
“The continued suspension of these charges has helped cushion the effect of global energy price fluctuations on households and businesses while keeping domestic fuel prices relatively stable,” the government stated.
Similarly, the government dismissed claims that it intends to impose fresh taxes on telecommunications services, explaining that the telecommunications excise duty introduced before 2023 has already been repealed under the country’s new tax laws.
“The telecommunications excise duty introduced before 2023 has been repealed under the new tax laws and is therefore no longer applicable,” the statement noted.
The Ministry stressed that reports alleging plans to impose new taxes on fuel and telecommunications services are inaccurate and should be disregarded by the public.
“Reports claiming that new taxes are being planned for telecommunications services or petroleum products are not factual and should be disregarded,” it added.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to implementing economic reforms aimed at stimulating growth, improving revenue administration, attracting investment, and creating jobs without placing additional financial burdens on citizens.
According to the Ministry, current policy efforts are focused on expanding economic activities, plugging revenue leakages, and enhancing operational efficiency rather than introducing new taxes.
“The emphasis remains on expanding economic activity, plugging leakages and improving efficiency rather than placing additional tax burdens on citizens,” the statement emphasized.
The government further assured Nigerians that any future tax measures would be communicated transparently through official channels and implemented strictly in accordance with the law.
The clarification comes amid public concern over the cost of living and heightened sensitivity to tax policies, with the government seeking to reassure businesses and households that no new taxes on fuel or telecommunications services are on the horizon.
