NANS Plans Nationwide Protest On January 14 Over New Tax Laws
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has announced plans for a nationwide protest on January 14, 2026, over the introduction of new tax laws. In a statement on Wednesday, NANS President Comrade Olushola Oladoja said the reforms could worsen economic challenges for students and millions of Nigerians. He criticised the Federal Government’s approach, accusing advisers to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of giving misguided counsel that could create unnecessary tension nationwide. Oladoja also took aim at the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr Zacch Adedeji, for inadequate stakeholder engagement and consultation before the rollout of the tax policy. He warned that poor planning and weak implementation 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 that claims commitment to democratic values and participatory governance,” he said, noting that the National Assembly had reportedly raised concerns about discrepancies in the gazetted law. He added that civil society organisations, youth groups, and student bodies had called for a suspension of the policy to allow for greater transparency and public sensitisation. As part of the protest, NANS declared January 14 a National Day of Action, directing chapters, state councils, and zonal coordinators to organise peaceful demonstrations 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 said.
