Tax Reform Faces Backlash as Oyedele Says He’s Received Threats While Pushing Overhaul

Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, says his leadership of Nigeria’s ambitious tax overhaul has drawn personal threats, highlighting deep resistance to changes in the country’s fiscal system.

Speaking in Abuja at an event marking a senior government official’s birthday, Oyedele said reforming the country’s tax structure has been difficult because it challenges entrenched interests and confronts longstanding public distrust in government. Reform efforts have been misunderstood by many, with some wrongly believing the administration is introducing new taxes rather than simplifying and reducing existing ones.

“Reforms are hard, and tax reforms are even harder. You need courage. I receive threats simply for trying to fix a broken system,” Oyedele said, underscoring the personal risks involved.

He warned that silence from supporters only allows critics to shape the national conversation and urged Nigerians who understand the importance of the changes to speak up.

The federal government began enforcement of a new tax regime on January 1, 2026, launching four major laws designed to harmonise and streamline tax collection across all levels of government.