Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, has spoken candidly about the emotional impact the tax reform process had on his family.
Speaking on Politics Today on Channels Television aired June 26, 2025, Oyedele described how the widespread backlash against the committee’s work created intense personal strain, especially for his wife and children.
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“The biggest sacrifice turns out to be the emotional impact, particularly on my family,” Oyedele said, just hours after President Bola Tinubu signed four groundbreaking tax reform bills into law.
He detailed how false reports and media attacks at the height of the controversy left his household deeply unsettled.
“At the height of it, there were people who would cook up stories on blogs, and in newspapers, and it took a toll on my family. My wife, for example, was doing night vigils every night and struggled to stay awake the following day.
“Thank God my kids are still too young. So, they don’t know what I am going through but it’s been tough, it’s a big sacrifice,” he added.
Appointed in July 2023, Oyedele emphasized the need for public support for those working toward national development.
“If Nigerians truly want a better country, they should not discourage honest people who want to help,” he said, calling for understanding and support for public officials navigating difficult reforms.
Despite emotional and financial sacrifices, Oyedele stood by the value of his work and chose not to take a salary.
“Just cover the cost of what you asked me to do; you don’t need to pay me a salary… it’s a small sacrifice in the context that this can make,” he noted.
He clarified that the reforms, effective from January 2026, are not aimed at raising taxes, but are designed to encourage economic growth, clamp down on tax evasion, and shield vulnerable citizens and small businesses.
The tax reform initiative had earlier faced criticism, especially from governors concerned about potential fiscal shortfalls. However, the Presidency and National Assembly insisted extensive consultations were held to address stakeholder concerns.
President Tinubu’s approval of the four bills marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s economic reform agenda.
The legislation includes, Nigeria Tax Bill (Ease of Doing Business) – Simplifies and consolidates existing tax laws, Nigeria Tax Administration Bill – Provides a unified legal framework for tax collection at all government levels, Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill – Replaces the FIRS with the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) and Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill – Enhances coordination among federal and state tax authorities.
The administration describes the laws as vital to achieving fiscal transparency, accountability, and sustainable national prosperity.
