According to a report by Daily Post on Friday September 5, 2025. The Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, has clarified that the proposed N500 surcharge on every N10,000 fuel purchase will not take effect in January 2026, contrary to widespread reports.
Oyedele made the clarification in a video message released Thursday morning, following public outrage over rumours of an imminent rollout date. He explained that while the levy is included in the new tax framework, its implementation has been deferred until a future date to be determined by the Minister of Finance.
“What we have is a surcharge on fuel under the FERMA Act, incorporated into the new tax law,” Oyedele said. “It does not take effect in January 2026. The law provides that it will begin on a date in the future through an order from the Finance Minister”.
He assured Nigerians that the ministry would be “responsible enough” to determine an appropriate start date.
The announcement comes amid widespread criticism from citizens who fear the surcharge could worsen hardship in the face of rising living costs.
On the intended use of the funds, Oyedele said the surcharge is designed to improve transportation infrastructure nationwide. He argued that such investments would help lower logistics costs, ease the movement of goods, and ultimately reduce inflation.
The clarification seeks to calm growing tension as government pushes forward with its broader fiscal reforms, aimed at boosting revenue without overburdening citizens.
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