In a significant show of confidence, a broad coalition of more than 100 civil society organisations (CSOs) has publicly endorsed the National Assembly's management of Nigeria's recently enacted tax reform legislation. The groups voiced their support at a press conference held in Abuja on Monday, December 29, 2025.
CSOs Applaud Legislative Process and Leadership
The coalition, spearheaded by the Parliamentary Support and Advocacy Network and the Civil Rights Situation Room on Economic Reforms, commended the leadership of the National Assembly for its adherence to constitutional and parliamentary procedures. Speaking on behalf of the groups, convener Comrade Ogiri John stated that the actions of the Assembly's leadership demonstrated restraint, respect for the law, and institutional maturity.
This endorsement comes amid public scrutiny of four key statutes: the Nigeria Tax Act, 2025, the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025, the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria Establishment Act, 2025, and the Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Act, 2025. These laws, passed by the National Assembly and signed by President Bola Tinubu earlier in the year, are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026.
Addressing Controversy and Upholding Transparency
The coalition addressed recent concerns regarding discrepancies between the versions of the laws passed by lawmakers and those later gazetted. They emphasized that public examination of legislation is a healthy democratic practice but must be grounded in facts.
"Having undertaken a careful and dispassionate examination, we are convinced that the response of the National Assembly Leadership has been exemplary in its adherence to constitutionalism and institutional self-regulation," John affirmed.
The groups specifically praised the directive for the re-gazetting of the laws and the issuance of Certified True Copies, a move they believe strengthens public trust and ensures access to accurate legal texts. They firmly rejected any notion that this process weakened legislative authority, framing it instead as a deliberate exercise of institutional responsibility.
Broader Implications of the Tax Reforms
Comrade John highlighted the profound importance of the new tax framework for Nigeria's future. "These tax reform laws will fundamentally shape Nigeria’s fiscal architecture, economic incentives, investment climate, revenue mobilisation, and prospects for inclusive growth," he said.
The coalition urged citizens, opinion leaders, and all stakeholders to allow the constitutional review process to run its course. They reaffirmed their support for the nation's economic reforms while restating an unwavering commitment to the rule of law and institutional accountability.
The CSOs' endorsement provides a strong vote of confidence in the legislative process as Nigeria prepares to implement a modernized tax system designed to improve revenue collection and create a more predictable business environment.
