-
NANS to stage nationwide protest on Jan 14, 2026, over controversial Tax Reform Laws.
-
Students’ body criticizes poor consultation, flawed rollout, and lack of public awareness by FIRS and government.
-
Planned action includes peaceful marches to Presidential Villa; NANS calls for nationwide mobilisation.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has announced plans to hold a nationwide protest on January 14, 2026, against the implementation of newly introduced tax laws, warning that the reforms could exacerbate the economic burden on students and millions of Nigerians.
In a statement on Wednesday, NANS President Comrade Olushola Oladoja expressed disappointment with the government’s handling of the Tax Reform Laws, accusing President Bola Tinubu’s advisers of providing “misguided advice” that risks unnecessary national confrontation.
ATTENTION: Click “HERE” to join our WhatsApp group and receive News updates directly on your WhatsApp!
Oladoja also criticized the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, for failing to manage stakeholder consultations effectively.
READ ALSO: NANS Gives Tinubu Govt 14-Day Ultimatum Over New Tax Law, Threatens Protests
He argued that poor consultation and a flawed rollout strategy could undermine progress in other sectors of the economy.
“The decision to commence implementation of the Tax Reform Law from January 1, 2026, sets a dangerous precedent for a government claiming commitment to democratic values and participatory governance,” Oladoja said.
He emphasized that major policies in a constitutional democracy cannot be imposed without public consent, particularly as the National Assembly has reportedly raised concerns over discrepancies in the gazetted version of the law. Civil society groups, youth organisations, and student bodies have reportedly called for the suspension of the policy until transparency and public awareness issues are addressed.
In response, NANS declared January 14, 2026, a National Day of Action, directing all its chapters, state councils, and zonal coordinators to mobilise for peaceful mass protests, including marches to the gates of the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Oladoja added: “There can be no government without the governed. While power may reside in offices, the power of the people will always be greater.”
