Revenue Service debunks vehicle tax claim

Amidst outrage and anger, the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) has debunked reports that a new vehicle tax has been introduced by the federal government with effect from July 1, 2026. It described as “false and misleading” a viral infographic claiming that the federal government is set to introduce a new green tax surcharge on high-engine […]

Amidst outrage and anger, the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) has debunked reports that a new vehicle tax has been introduced by the federal government with effect from July 1, 2026.

It described as “false and misleading” a viral infographic claiming that the federal government is set to introduce a new green tax surcharge on high-engine vehicles, with a levy of between 2 per cent and 4 per cent as part of its 2026 fiscal policy measures.

The initiative, according to the viral post, is designed to align Nigeria’s tax framework with environmental objectives while enhancing revenue generation.

The new levy reportedly targets vehicles based on engine capacity, with exemptions introduced to protect specific categories and encourage cleaner alternatives.

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Background

The report noted that the government explained that the green tax is part of a wider strategy to reform fiscal policies and introduce environmentally conscious taxation.

“Vehicles with engine sizes of 2,000cc (2-liter) to ⁠3,999cc at a rate of 2%,  while vehicles with engines of 4,000cc and above will face a 4% charge,” the report noted.

“Vehicles with engines below 2,000cc will be exempt, as will mass transit buses, electric vehicles and locally manufactured vehicles.”

However, many Nigerians have expressed anger over the proposal which has now been debunked by the NRS.

While debunking what it called the visual misinformation in a statement by Special Adviser to the NRS Chairman and spokesperson for the Service, Dare Adekanmbi, the NRS said the Federal Government has not introduced any fresh tax on vehicles as claimed in the material.

The statement advised members of the public to trust and rely only on information disseminated through verified official channels of government or any of its agencies and not on anonymous graphics circulating online.

“The attention of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) has been drawn to a viral infographic message claiming that the Federal Government has introduced a fresh vehicle tax on all registered vehicles effective from 1 July 2026.

“The message, which was adorned with the Federal Government logo to give the appearance of authenticity, advises vehicle owners to make payments online or at approved banks and agencies.

“The NRS wishes to state categorically that the information did not emanate from the Service or any government agency.

“Citizens are, therefore, advised to disregard the fabricated message designed to mislead the public and instead rely on official government channels for information on government policies,” the statement said.

The NRS further advised Nigerians to follow the official handles of the NRS on all social media platforms and its website for true information about tax and its activities.