Nigeria Rejects IMF Tax Recommendations on Fuel, Telecoms

The Federal Government of Nigeria, through a statement signed by Ef Ovuakpori, has ruled out the introduction of new taxes on fuel and telecommunications services, despite recommendations from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in its Article IV consultation report. The government clarified that the IMF's recommendations are not binding and do not reflect its policies.

It emphasized that decisions regarding taxation are made through a constitutional legislative process that prioritizes national economic realities. The government also reaffirmed that existing tax waivers on petroleum products remain in effect and that any proposed tax measures would be announced through official channels.

The statement urged the public to disregard claims of new tax proposals, asserting that the government is focused on reforms to stimulate economic growth and improve revenue administration without imposing additional tax burdens on citizens.