Ethnic Youth Groups Endorse New Tax Regime, Call For Unity

Nigeria’s ethnic youth organisations are set to converge later in this January to declare their full support for the total implementation of the Federal Government’s new tax regime, describing it as a “necessary sacrifice” for the nation’s long-term economic recovery and stability.

This was revealed in a statement signed by the Joint Convener of the coalition of the youth groups, Mallam Kabiru Yusuf.

The youth leaders, representing the Arewa Consultative Youths, Ohanaeze Youth Council, Oduduwa Youth Forum, Middle Belt Youth Association, and South-South Youth Coalition, announced that the gatherings will be held on January 8, 2026, in Kaduna (North) and January 13, 2026, in Aba, Abia State, under the theme “For the Sake of National Interest, We Stand Firmly with the Implementation of the New Tax Regime.”

In a joint press statement, the leaders said the initiative aimed to mobilise young Nigerians, educate citizens on the objectives of the tax reforms, and foster collective responsibility in rebuilding the nation’s economy.

“The path to economic recovery is often demanding, but history has shown that nations that endure necessary reforms emerge stronger,” the statement read. “Nigerian youths must see this moment as a collective investment in our future prosperity.”

While acknowledging the short-term pains that may accompany the policy, the youth groups insisted that the reforms would strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal base, boost infrastructure development, and create a more sustainable economic future.

They also appealed to Nigerian youths, who they described as “the backbone of the nation’s workforce and entrepreneurship” to show patience and resilience as the reforms take effect.

“Economic transformation requires sacrifice and shared commitment,” the statement continued. “We urge our fellow youths to remain steadfast. The new tax system is not about burdening citizens, but about building a fairer, stronger economy.”

The leaders referenced the recent enactment of four major fiscal laws signed by President Bola Tinubu on June 26, 2025; Nigeria Tax Act (NTA) 2025, Nigeria Tax Administration Act (NTAA) 2025, Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act (NRSEA) 2025 and Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act (JRBEA) 2025

The new laws, which took effect from January 1, 2026, introduced over 50 exemptions and reliefs designed to support low-income earners, small businesses, and average taxpayers.

The coalition urged the Federal Government to uphold transparency, fairness, and accountability in the execution of the reforms to sustain public trust.

“We are calling on the Federal Government to ensure that revenues generated are visibly channeled into development projects that directly impact citizens,” the statement emphasised.

They further pledged to partner with government agencies, civil society groups, and development stakeholders to ensure that the new tax regime protects vulnerable Nigerians while promoting inclusive growth.

“We reaffirm our readiness to promote dialogue and unity across ethnic, religious, and political lines. Economic progress can only be achieved when Nigerians work together with shared purpose and national interest,” the youth leaders concluded.