By Atoyebi Nike
Civil-society group Citizen Monitors has asked the Federal Government to provide Nigerians with clear guidance and protections ahead of the 2026 tax law rollout.
The new framework, which incorporates the Nigeria Tax Act, Nigeria Tax Administration Act, and Nigeria Revenue Service Act, has sparked debates and protests over some provisions, particularly the proposed 5% fossil-fuel surcharge. The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has also denied reports that every Nigerian will need a Tax Identification Number (TIN) to open or maintain bank accounts.
In a statement signed on Monday by its spokesperson, Olajumoke Alawode-James, the organisation welcomed the suspension of the fuel surcharge but stressed the need for practical communication.
The group outlined three immediate steps: publish a one-page plain-English guide with FAQs and a timeline, reassure the public that VAT remains 7.5% with zero-rated essentials enforced in markets, and release PAYE tables early while easing SMEs into the e-invoicing system without penalties.
Citizen Monitors said it would track the rollout to show Nigerians what is working and where improvements are needed.
