The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has revealed plans to hold a nationwide protest on January 14, 2026, in response to the implementation of recently introduced tax laws, cautioning that the measures could deepen economic hardship for students and millions of Nigerians.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the NANS President, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, voiced displeasure with how the Federal Government has handled the tax reform policies.
Oladoja also faulted the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, alleging a failure to effectively manage stakeholder engagement and consultations prior to the rollout of the policy.
He warned that inadequate consultation and a poorly executed implementation strategy could undermine gains recorded in other sectors of the economy.
According to him, the decision to commence implementation of the Tax Reform Law from January 1, 2026, contradicts democratic principles and participatory governance.
“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,” Oladoja said.
He stressed that in a constitutional democracy, major policies should not be imposed without broad public consent, noting reports that the National Assembly had raised concerns over discrepancies in the gazetted version of the law. He added that civil society organisations, youth groups, and student bodies had called for the suspension of the policy pending greater transparency and public sensitisation.
In response, NANS declared January 14, 2026, a National Day of Action, directing all chapters, state councils, and zonal coordinators to mobilise for peaceful protests 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 added.
He alleged that advisers to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are offering what he termed poor guidance, which could fuel avoidable tension across the country.
