The National Orientation Agency has declared its readiness to lead nationwide sensitisation efforts ahead of the implementation of the new Tax Act in January 2026, saying clear communication will be vital to the success of the federal government’s fiscal reforms.
Director-General of the agency, Lanre Issa-Onilu, made the pledge in Abuja during a meeting with the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, and other members of the committee.
Issa-Onilu said the rapid spread of misinformation—especially through digital platforms—makes public enlightenment urgent. He explained that many of the narratives circulating about the tax law were either based on misunderstanding or aimed at frustrating government efforts to reform the fiscal environment.
He stressed that the new law carries significant benefits, including the elimination of multiple and double taxation that has long burdened workers, businesses and investors. With its vast presence across the country, he said the NOA is well positioned to take accurate information to citizens at all levels.
“We have mapped the country to understand its diverse demographics. This enables us to adopt the right communication models for different segments—traders, farmers, youth, civil society groups and professional associations. Our officers are from the communities they serve, and that trust is our advantage,” he noted.
He also highlighted the agency’s broad media network, saying the NOA works with over 200 radio stations and 36 television stations broadcasting in 72 local languages. He added that the agency is increasing its digital footprint through tools such as its AI-powered voice and chat assistant, CLHEEAN, which provides verified information on government policies.
“These are tools we intend to deploy fully in support of public sensitisation on the new tax laws,” he said.
In his remarks, Oyedele said the committee sought NOA’s partnership to address widespread confusion about the Act, especially in rural communities. He said some of the misinformation being spread was crafted to stir opposition among low-income groups who stand to benefit from the reforms.
He disclosed that the committee may adopt scenario-based messaging—using examples featuring farmers, students, CEOs and others—to explain how the new system applies to different groups.
Oyedele added that once Nigerians understand the benefits of the reforms, resistance to the new tax regime would ease.
At the end of the meeting, both sides agreed to set up a joint committee to coordinate nationwide sensitisation efforts. The reforms team also presented Issa-Onilu with copies of the new tax laws, while the NOA leadership presented Oyedele with the National Value Charter plaque.
The Tax Reforms Bill was signed into law in June as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader agenda to simplify taxation and strengthen the country’s fiscal framework.
