The Federal Government has dismissed reports suggesting that it plans to introduce new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products, saying such claims misrepresent recommendations contained in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Article IV Consultation Report on Nigeria.
The clarification comes amid growing public concern over the possibility of additional fiscal measures at a time when households and businesses are grappling with elevated operating costs and inflationary pressures.
In a statement issued on Monday in Abuja, the Head of Information and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Finance, Mr Efe Ovuakporie, said the IMF’s recommendations were advisory in nature and should not be interpreted as government policy.
According to him, tax decisions in Nigeria are determined through established constitutional and legislative processes and are guided by national economic priorities rather than external prescriptions.
“The IMF recommendations do not constitute binding obligations on Nigeria,” the ministry stated.
The government specifically addressed concerns over petroleum taxation, affirming that the Value Added Tax (VAT) waiver on petroleum products remains in effect and has not been withdrawn.
It also clarified that there are currently no plans to activate any fuel surcharge provisions contained in existing legislation.
According to the ministry, any attempt to introduce such a surcharge would require a formal ministerial order and publication in the Official Gazette before implementation.
The government noted that the continued suspension of fuel-related charges has helped cushion consumers and businesses from the impact of volatility in international energy markets.
The clarification is significant for manufacturers, transport operators and other energy-dependent sectors, where concerns over higher fuel costs could further increase production and logistics expenses.
The ministry added that domestic fuel prices have remained relatively stable partly because of the existing waiver and suspension measures.
On telecommunications, the government said reports of a new excise duty were inaccurate, explaining that the telecommunications excise tax introduced before 2023 had been repealed under the country’s revised tax framework.
It stressed that the levy is no longer applicable and that no new telecoms tax has been approved.
The statement is expected to provide reassurance to telecom operators and subscribers, who have faced rising network investment costs and tariff-related concerns in recent years.
The government reiterated its commitment to implementing reforms aimed at strengthening revenue administration, promoting economic growth and attracting investment without imposing unannounced fiscal burdens on citizens and businesses.
It added that any future tax measures would be communicated through official channels and implemented strictly in accordance with applicable laws.
The clarification underscores the government’s effort to balance revenue mobilisation with economic stability as it pursues broader fiscal and structural reforms.