NANS Calls Off Planned Anti‑Tax Protest After Talks With Government Agencies
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has withdrawn its proposed nationwide protest against the controversial Tax Reform Act, scheduled for January 14, following extensive consultations with key government bodies including the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS), the National Assembly and the Department of State Services (DSS).
The student group, which had earlier threatened mass demonstrations and a “National Day of Action” to oppose the implementation of the new tax regime, said the meetings helped clarify provisions of the law and dispelled misconceptions about its impact.
In a communiqué issued at the end of its expanded National Executive Council meeting in Abuja, NANS President Olushola Oladoja explained that students received briefings from lawmakers and tax officials on the intent and structure of the reform. After listening to experts and engaging in thorough discussions, the association concluded that the law was not designed to unduly burden vulnerable Nigerians and includes safeguards for low‑income citizens.
The association affirmed that the Tax Reform Act aims to improve Nigeria’s revenue system, ensure a fairer tax burden, and strengthen social protection mechanisms. Following the agreements reached during the engagements, NANS officially called off its planned protest.
NANS also pledged support for nationwide public enlightenment efforts to educate citizens, particularly young people and students, about the purpose and benefits of the reform. The student body passed a vote of confidence in the leadership of the NRS Executive Chairman, Zacch Adedeji, citing his role in explaining the law to stakeholders.
The decision to shelve the protest comes after earlier criticism from NANS regarding the law’s introduction, with student leaders raising concerns about its implementation and the need for greater public sensitisation.
Government officials welcomed the shift, describing the students’ change of stance as a positive outcome of constructive dialogue, and reaffirmed that the reforms are intended to simplify Nigeria’s tax system and protect vulnerable groups during the implementation process.
The cancellation of the planned protest has averted potential nationwide student demonstrations and highlights the impact of stakeholder engagement in addressing contentious policy issues.