The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has announced plans to hold a nationwide protest on January 14, 2026, over the implementation of the newly introduced tax reform laws, warning that the policy could deepen economic hardship for students and millions of Nigerians.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, NANS President, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Federal Government’s handling of the reforms, accusing some advisers to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of offering what he described as misguided advice capable of generating avoidable national tension.
Oladoja also criticised the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr Zacch Adedeji, alleging inadequate stakeholder engagement and poor consultation before the rollout of the new tax regime. He warned that weak implementation strategies could undermine gains recorded in other sectors of the economy.
According to the student leader, the decision to commence implementation of the Tax Reform Law on January 1, 2026, contradicts the principles of democratic governance and public participation.
“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,” Oladoja said.
He stressed that in a constitutional democracy, far-reaching policies should not be imposed without broad public consensus. Oladoja also referenced reports suggesting that the National Assembly has raised concerns over discrepancies in the gazetted version of the law.
The NANS president noted that several civil society organisations, youth groups, and student bodies have called for the suspension of the policy pending greater transparency, improved consultation, and wider public sensitisation.
As part of its response, NANS declared January 14, 2026, a National Day of Action, directing all chapters, state councils, and zonal coordinators to mobilise for peaceful protests nationwide, including marches to the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
“There can be no government without the governed. While power may reside in offices, the power of the people will always be greater,” Oladoja stated.
