The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has begun mobilising students nationwide to oppose the implementation of the new tax laws introduced by the President Bola Tinubu administration, which came into force on January 1, 2026.
The student union has declared January 14, 2026, as a National Day of Action, warning that it will organise a large-scale protest against what it described as the contentious Tax Reform Law if its enforcement is not suspended.
This move comes amid rising resistance to the new tax framework, which has generated widespread debate over alleged differences between the versions of the bills approved by the National Assembly and those later published in the official gazette.
Several groups, including the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and minority lawmakers in the House of Representatives, have called on the Federal Government to pause implementation until the discrepancies are clarified. However, President Tinubu has rejected these calls, insisting that no major issues have been identified that would justify halting the reforms.
Reacting to the government’s stance, NANS President, Olushola Oladoja, criticised the decision to proceed with implementation while concerns remain unresolved. He argued that enforcing the law under such circumstances undermines public confidence and democratic participation.
According to Oladoja, pushing ahead despite widespread objections signals a lack of inclusiveness and transparency in a reform process that should actively involve citizens. He described the government’s approach as dismissive of public concerns and inconsistent with democratic values.
He also faulted the Presidency’s reaffirmation of the commencement date, saying it overlooks the role of citizens in a democratic society and marginalises those most affected by the reforms.
As part of its planned response, NANS has instructed its national, zonal and campus structures to begin immediate preparations for a peaceful protest in Abuja. Oladoja said the demonstration would start at the Unity Fountain and culminate at the Presidential Villa.
He reiterated the association’s demand for an immediate suspension of the tax law to allow for proper review and resolution of the disputed provisions.
“Our position is clear,” he said. “The implementation of the Tax Reform Law must be suspended until all contentious issues are fully addressed.”
NANS warned that if its demand is ignored, students may embark on sustained nationwide protests, further increasing pressure on the Federal Government over the new tax regime.
