Presidential Tax Reform Chairman Clarifies Fuel Surcharge Start Date Not January 2026

Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Tax Reform Committee, has clarified that the proposed N500 levy on every N10,000 fuel purchase will not take effect in January 2026 as previously reported. The implementation date will instead be announced later by the Minister of Finance.

The clarification comes after widespread criticism from Nigerians, who demanded a suspension of the levy following rumours that it would begin in January 2026.

In a video statement released on Friday, Oyedele explained, “There was a law enacted some years back with a surcharge on fuel under the FERMA Act. This provision is included in the new tax law, but it does not take effect as of January 2026. The fuel surcharges will take effect on a future date determined by an order from the Minister of Finance, who will decide when it is appropriate to implement it.”

On the purpose of the surcharge, Oyedele said the revenue will be specifically allocated to transport infrastructure projects aimed at reducing logistics costs and, ultimately, lowering inflation for Nigerians. “The intention is to earmark and dedicate the revenue from this tax to provide transport infrastructure that can reduce the cost of transporting items, improve logistics, and bring down overall inflation for the Nigerian people,” he added.