The Federal Government has dismissed reports suggesting it plans to impose new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products, despite recommendations contained in the International Monetary Fund’s Article IV Consultation Report on Nigeria.

The clarification was provided by the Senior Special Assistant on Communications and Press Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Maryann Duke.

The clarification followed reports suggesting that Nigeria could introduce new taxes after the IMF recommended extending Value Added Tax to petroleum products and imposing excise duties on telecommunications services as part of measures to boost government revenue, support development initiatives, and expand social spending.

The Federal Government, however, stressed that the IMF’s recommendations are advisory in nature and do not constitute approved government policy.

It added that any changes to the country’s tax regime would only be considered and implemented through established legal and institutional processes.

The Federal Government has dismissed reports claiming it has adopted or intends to introduce new taxes on telecommunications services and petroleum products, describing such claims as inaccurate and not reflective of its policy position.

“The Federal Government is not considering the introduction of any new taxes on telecommunications services or petroleum products.

“The IMF Article IV Consultation Report contains the Fund’s assessments and policy recommendations for consideration by the relevant country. Such recommendations do not constitute decisions of the government of Nigeria, nor are they binding on the government.

“Policy decisions are introduced through established constitutional, legislative, and institutional processes, taking into account national priorities and prevailing economic conditions,” it said.

The Federal Government also clarified that the existing VAT exemption on petroleum products remains in effect and has not been removed.

The government said its priority remains strengthening revenue administration, expanding economic activity, reducing inefficiencies, and fostering a more competitive environment that supports investment and job creation, rather than imposing additional tax burdens on citizens.

It noted that while existing laws provide for the possibility of a fuel surcharge, any such measure would require a specific ministerial directive and formal publication in the Official Gazette before it could take effect.

According to the government, no such proposal is currently under consideration.

It added that the suspension of certain taxes has helped keep domestic fuel prices below international levels and those of neighbouring countries, cushioning consumers from the impact of volatility in global energy markets.