President Bola Tinubu has signed four new tax bills into law, The move has raised questions among governors and citizens alike.
The short signing ceremony took place at the Presidential Villa on Thursday. Present were lawmakers, governors, ministers, and members of the president’s team. The bills signed are: the Nigeria Tax Bill, Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill.
Tinubu Signs New Tax Bills Despite Governors’ Concerns
These bills had passed through the National Assembly after what was described as “extensive consultations” with stakeholders. But even that hasn’t eased the worry. Many governors believe these tax reforms may leave them unable to pay salaries.
Zacch Adedeji, the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), told reporters that the new tax laws will take effect from January 1, 2026.
He explained, “It takes time for all the stakeholders, participants, operators, and the regulator to change the system. So, with the magnanimity of the National Assembly, Mr President assented to the bills. So, the effective date will be January 1, 2026. We have six full months for both sensitisation and planning.”
Governors Say Tinubu’s Tax Bills May Cause Salary Crises
The Tinubu administration insists the new tax structure will improve revenue collection, attract foreign investments, and create a better environment for doing business. But the governors see trouble ahead. Some argue that the bills would cut into their state’s internally generated revenue, which they rely on to pay salaries.
Though the presidency claims all stakeholders have been engaged and fears “allayed,” some governors privately disagree. They believe these reforms shift too much power to the centre and leave the states financially stranded.
Tinubu Signs New Tax Bills, Governors Panic Over Salary Woes
So what exactly happens now that Tinubu has signed these tax bills? For Abuja, it’s a win on paper, more control, more money, more structure. But for the states already struggling to stay afloat, this might be the final straw.
Nobody’s saying the reforms are evil. But if some states can’t pay salaries in 2026, don’t act surprised. They warned us. The presidency claims it held consultations, but when push comes to shove, it’s the teachers, nurses, and junior workers who’ll bear the brunt.
