Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, has revealed that he has been receiving death threats following the rollout of Nigeria’s new tax reform laws.
Speaking at a governance colloquium in Abuja on Tuesday, Oyedele noted that these threats arise from vested interests resisting the reforms. He characterized tax reform as one of the most challenging aspects of structural change in Nigeria, highlighting the prevailing low public trust in government, a weak tax culture, and limited visibility regarding how taxes translate into public benefits.
“Reforms are difficult, and tax reforms are even more so. It requires courage. I receive threats simply for attempting to fix a broken system,” Oyedele stated. He emphasized that Nigeria’s tax revenues are significantly low compared to those of its peers, making comprehensive reforms essential.
He urged Nigerians who understand and support these reforms to speak out, warning that silence allows misinformation and negative narratives to dominate public discourse. According to him, the opposition to the reforms highlights the personal risks faced by advocates pushing for changes that challenge entrenched interests.
The Federal Government began implementing the new tax regime on January 1, 2026, with the introduction of four major laws: the Nigeria Tax Act 2025, Nigeria Tax Administration Act 2025, Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Act 2025, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Act 2025.
Oyedele’s remarks have drawn attention to the security risks associated with pursuing fiscal and economic reforms in Nigeria, particularly those aimed at broadening the tax base, improving compliance, and strengthening public finance management.
Despite the threats, he remains steadfast in his belief that these reforms are crucial for fixing Nigeria’s dysfunctional revenue system and ensuring sustainable national development.
