On January 14, 2026, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) will launch a nationwide demonstration against the new tax laws. The organization cautions that millions of Nigerians and students may experience increased financial hardship as a result of the measures. Comrade Olushola Oladoja, President of NANS, voiced his displeasure with the Federal Government's implementation of the tax reform laws in a statement released on Wednesday. Oladoja criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's aides for providing what he called "misguided counsel capable of creating unnecessary national tension."
Additionally, he accused Dr. Zacch Adedeji, the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), of failing to properly oversee stakeholder participation and consultations before the policy's implementation. He claims that inadequate consultation and a bad implementation plan could jeopardize advancements made in other economic sectors.
Oladoja also contended that the Tax Reform Law's implementation on January 1, 2026, goes against democratic ideals and participatory governance. “The decision to commence implementation of the Tax Reform Law from January 1, 2026, sets a dangerous precedent for a government that claims commitment to democratic values and participatory governance,” he said.
He emphasized that significant policies should not be imposed without widespread public support in a constitutional democracy, citing reports that the National Assembly had voiced reservations about inconsistencies in the gazetted version of the bill.
Oladoja continued by saying that student organizations, youth organizations, and civil society organizations had demanded that the policy be put on hold until there was greater public awareness and increased openness.
In response, NANS proclaimed January 14, 2026, a National Day of Action, ordering all chapters, state councils, and zonal coordinators to organize nonviolent demonstrations across the country, including marches to Abuja's Presidential Villa.