May 19, (THEWILL) — The Federal Government has announced plans to introduce fresh regulations and implementation guidelines to tackle illegal and multiple taxation by state and local governments across Nigeria.
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, disclosed this during an interview on Channels Television, stating that tax harmonisation remains a key priority of the current administration.
Although the Nigerian Tax Act and the Nigerian Tax Administration Act became effective on January 1, 2026, implementation has largely focused on the federal level. The government is now intensifying engagement with subnational authorities to align tax administration practices nationwide.
Oyedele said the Federal Government was working closely with states to enact laws that would eliminate unauthorised levies, reduce multiple taxation, and improve transparency in revenue collection.
“Some of the excessive tax burden and multiple taxes are at the local government and state levels. We’re working with the subnationals for them to enact laws to stop those illegal taxes and automate the process to reduce corruption and ensure revenues go directly to the government”, he said.
He revealed that 15 states have already passed the required laws, while discussions continue with others yet to comply.
According to him, the Ministry of Finance is also focused on strengthening collaboration across all levels of government to ensure effective implementation of the reforms.
The planned guidelines follow sweeping tax reforms signed into law by President Bola Tinubu in June 2025. The reforms include the Nigeria Tax Bill, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, the Nigeria Revenue Service Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Bill.
Oyedele further noted that the government intends to improve fiscal transparency, enhance access to economic data, and institutionalise stronger cooperation between the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank of Nigeria as part of broader efforts to modernise the country’s tax system.
Ogochukwu Onwaeze is a writer specializing in business and economic journalism. At THEWILL News Media, she translates market trends, financial developments, and policy shifts into clear and engaging stories.
