The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has officially called off its proposed nationwide protest regarding the new Tax Reform Act. This decision follows a series of engagements with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and other government bodies.
The resolution was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the maiden Expanded National Executive Council meeting of the association. The meeting reviewed the legislation and addressed earlier concerns raised by the student body.
Previously, NANS had threatened to mobilise students for mass protests on January 14, 2026, demanding the suspension of the law pending a National Assembly investigation. However, NANS President Olushola Oladoja stated on Tuesday that the leadership held fruitful consultations with the National Assembly, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the FIRS.
“Following the conclusion of the National Assembly’s investigation… the Expanded National Executive Council of NANS… provided a platform for tax experts from the FIRS to educate student leaders,” Oladoja stated.
After the briefings, the association concluded that the Tax Reform Law is “deliberate and well-intentioned,” aimed at improving Nigeria’s economy and protecting vulnerable citizens. The student body affirmed that the law does not target the poor but strengthens social protection while ensuring higher-income earners contribute equitably.
Consequently, the protest scheduled for January 14 has been suspended. Furthermore, NANS passed a vote of confidence on the Executive Chairman of the FIRS, Zacch Adedeji, and commended the President for his student-focused initiatives.
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