The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called for the immediate suspension of the newly introduced Tax Reform Laws scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026, citing poor public awareness, flawed implementation strategies, and constitutional concerns.
In a statement signed by its National President, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, NANS acknowledged the importance of tax reforms in boosting national revenue and economic stability but warned that the current approach could deepen public resentment and distrust toward government authorities.
According to the association, Nigerians remain largely uninformed about the content, scope, and long-term implications of the new tax laws, raising widespread fear that the reforms would further burden citizens already grappling with severe economic hardship.
NANS cautioned that inadequate understanding of the laws could weaken the capacity of businesses and individuals to plan effectively for the coming year, potentially worsening economic shocks across the country.
The student body also faulted the government for allegedly sidelining key grassroots organisations, including NANS and the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), which it said possess extensive reach across communities nationwide and could play a vital role in public enlightenment.
As a result, the association demanded comprehensive and inclusive nationwide sensitisation campaigns, anchored on community-based engagements, to properly educate citizens on the tax reforms.
It further urged the National Assembly to conclude its review of the alleged alterations to the laws and make its findings public.
NANS warned that failure by relevant authorities to address its concerns within 14 days, on or before January 14, would compel the association to embark on coordinated nationwide protests to protect the interests of Nigerian students and the wider populace.
