The leadership of Nigeria’s National Assembly has moved to calm public concerns over alleged discrepancies between legislative records and gazetted versions of recently passed Tax Acts.
In a statement issued Thursday, the Assembly directed the immediate release of the transmitted bills signed into law by President Bola Tinubu.
“This decision was taken in response to growing public debate and calls for transparency surrounding the tax legislation,” the statement read.
The Assembly confirmed that the Clerk to the National Assembly has been instructed to make available copies of the transmitted Tax Bills, including certificate pages bearing presidential assent.
This will allow Nigerians to independently verify the authenticity of the documents.
The statement, signed by Mr. Bullah Bi-Allah, Director of Information, clarified that while public interest in the Tax Acts has been high, only a limited number of individuals and organisations have formally applied for Certified True Copies (CTCs).
“All requests received so far have been processed. Other interested persons are advised to apply directly to the Office of the Clerk, specifying the particular bills required and paying the prescribed fees,” it added.
Gazetting Process Underway
The Assembly explained that the Clerk is working with the Federal Government Printing Press to ensure publication of duly certified and assented Acts in line with statutory requirements.
The official gazetted versions of the Tax Acts are expected to be ready on or before January 1, 2026.
While stressing that the Clerk initiated the gazetting process, the Assembly noted that final responsibility for printing and publication rests solely with the Printing Press.
To avoid future controversies, the Assembly announced a review of its internal procedures. Henceforth, all bills forwarded for presidential assent will be routed through designated Presidential Liaison Officers.
It also stated that no request for gazetting will be entertained by the Printing Press unless formally initiated by the Clerk or an authorised representative.
Kogi State Aligns with Federal Tax Reforms
In a related development, Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State signed the Kogi State Tax Bill into law, effective January 1, 2026.
Ododo signed two key revenue bills — the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (Establishment) Law, 2025, and the Kogi State Taxes and Levies (Approved List for Collection) Law, 2025.
The move aligns with the federal government’s new Nigeria Tax Reform Act, effectively domesticating the reforms to ensure smooth operation of the new tax regime.
The laws exempt individuals earning below ₦800,000 annually from tax. They also promise simplified processes, reduced compliance costs, and digitalised administration to promote accountability.
“Increased investment: simplified tax processes and reduced compliance costs will attract businesses. Technology-driven efficiency: digitalised tax administration will reduce human interference and promote accountability,” the statement noted.
The National Assembly commended Nigerians for their sustained interest in legislative affairs, describing it as vital for strengthening transparency and professionalism in law-making.
The reforms are expected to boost state revenue, enhance transparency, and support economic growth, while protecting low-income earners.
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