Media Urge to Drive Awareness as Nigeria’s 2025 Tax Reforms Face Confusion, Trust Gaps

Media organisations across Nigeria have been called upon to intensify public sensitisation efforts on the country’s 2025 tax reforms, as stakeholders warn of widespread confusion, low awareness, and trust deficits surrounding the new system.

The Managing Director of the Bauchi Radio Corporation, Alhaji Umar Muhammad, made the call during his remarks at 65th birthday celebration and the launch of The Nigerian Tax Survivor Guide, authored by tax consultant Tajudeen Toyin-Oke.

The event brought together tax experts, professionals, and stakeholders who examined the implementation of the reforms, highlighting system inefficiencies, poor public preparation, and gaps in communication.

Umar Muhammad stressed that the media must bridge the knowledge gap created by what many described as a rushed rollout of the reforms.

He noted that effective policy implementation depends heavily on public understanding, which requires continuous education and accurate dissemination of information.

According to him, taxation remains a civic responsibility that citizens must adapt to, especially as policies evolve.

He emphasised that both the media and the public have roles to play in fostering dialogue and understanding.

The Managing Director described Toyin-Oke’s book as timely and essential, noting that it provides a practical roadmap to help Nigerians navigate the changing tax landscape.

Also speaking at the event, Olu Alabi of the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria shared real-life challenges faced by taxpayers under the new system.

He recounted instances where individuals struggled to file their taxes despite willingness to comply, highlighting the need for clearer guidance and support.

Alabi warned that tax compliance is becoming stricter, with penalties for late filing and non-compliance, adding that many Nigerians remain unsure about procedures such as filing PAYE returns.

Pharmaceutical researcher Henry Egharevba acknowledged the importance of taxation but pointed to significant issues of trust and transparency.

He cited personal experiences involving inconsistencies in tax documentation requirements, noting that distrust exists on both sides between taxpayers and authorities.

Mr Egharevba stressed that expanding the tax base requires building confidence in the system, as citizens are unlikely to comply fully if they perceive exploitation or lack of fairness.

From the traders’ perspective, Okorie Ikechukwu-Raphael identified low literacy levels as a major barrier to compliance.

He explained that many traders struggle with tax filing processes and called for simplified tools and increased advocacy to ensure broader participation.

He also argued that the one-month compliance window is insufficient, urging the government to consider an extension to accommodate more taxpayers.

In a similar vein, Pastor Banto Eburuche encouraged Nigerians to take tax compliance seriously, warning of consequences such as account restrictions and penalties.

He shared personal experiences of financial losses due to previous non-compliance, advising individuals and businesses to prioritise tax registration and filing from the outset.

Tax practitioner Yewande Ogundipe criticised technical challenges with the TaxPro Max platform, describing it as difficult to navigate. She called for system upgrades and better user orientation to improve accessibility.

Meanwhile, Oracle Nwala, Chairman of the Tax Appeal Tribunal (South East Zone), urged Nigerians to remain patient as the reforms take effect.

He explained that the updated tax framework aims to simplify compliance and harmonise existing laws while targeting high-income earners.

Nwala noted that small businesses earning below ₦100 million annually are exempt from taxation under the new policy, a move designed to ease the burden on the majority of citizens.

Author Toyin-Oke reiterated that the reforms are structured to reduce tax pressure on about 80 percent of Nigerians while focusing on those with higher earning capacity.

He added that his book was written in simple language to address widespread confusion and provide practical guidance.

Overall, speakers agreed that while the reforms hold significant potential, their success depends on effective communication, improved systems, and greater public trust.