The Federal Government has dismissed reports claiming it plans to introduce new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products, following suggestions contained in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Article IV Consultation Report on Nigeria.
The clarification was issued on Wednesday by the Ministry of Finance through the Head of Information and Public Relations, Efe Ovuakporie, who stated that the reports misrepresented the IMF’s recommendations and did not reflect government policy.
According to the statement, while the IMF provides assessments and policy suggestions on Nigeria’s economy, such recommendations are not binding and do not automatically translate into government decisions.
“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,” the ministry said.
The Federal Government also reaffirmed that the Value Added Tax (VAT) waiver on petroleum products remains in effect and has not been removed. It further clarified that although existing laws provide for a fuel surcharge, no ministerial order or official gazette has been issued to activate such a measure.
“No such process is under consideration,” the statement added, noting that the current position has helped cushion the impact of global energy price fluctuations on Nigerians.
On telecommunications taxation, the government stated that an excise duty previously introduced before 2023 has been repealed under new tax reforms and is no longer applicable.
The Ministry emphasized that claims of new or additional taxes on fuel or telecom services are inaccurate and should be disregarded.
Reiterating its fiscal position, the Federal Government said it remains focused on expanding economic activity, improving revenue efficiency, and attracting investment rather than imposing additional tax burdens on citizens.
It assured that any future tax policy changes would be formally communicated through official channels and implemented strictly in line with constitutional and legislative processes.
