Former African Democratic Congress presidential candidate Dumebi Kachikwu has declared he would favour President Bola Tinubu over other challengers should he decide not to run for the presidency in 2027, while urging a prompt review of the new tax reform scheduled to begin nationwide on 1 January 2026.
In a seven-page New Year message released in Abuja, the media entrepreneur said he applauded several of the president’s bold initiatives and reiterated his willingness to back Tinubu above what he described as “failed politicians” masquerading as opposition. At the same time, Kachikwu appealed for a reconsideration of the tax measures, saying the timing and design risked inflicting further hardship on already strained households.
Nigeria tax reform raises concerns for ordinary Nigerians
Kachikwu told journalists that while he recognised the seriousness of the economic situation inherited in 2023 and the need for decisive action, the new tax regime could be counterproductive. He warned that ordinary Nigerians, who are finding it difficult to make ends meet, may end up shouldering the brunt of reforms intended to revive the economy.
“We understand the need for tax reforms, but an already overburdened populace cannot afford any more taxation,” he said, adding that the major beneficiaries of some policies have often been a small, privileged segment able to influence government measures to favour their interests.
The former ADC standard bearer argued that without careful design and safeguards, the reform risks widening inequality rather than delivering broad-based recovery. He expressed concern that the privileged few would manipulate the new rules to their advantage, denying most Nigerians the intended benefits of the government’s economic resuscitation policies.
Kachikwu’s intervention comes as the administration presses on with measures intended to stabilise public finances and stimulate growth. The president’s team has said fiscal changes are necessary to expand revenue and fund critical services after what officials described as a near-comatose economy at the point of assumption in 2023.
Observers say the debate over taxation highlights a familiar tension between the need to shore up revenues and the political imperative to protect vulnerable households. Economists caution that poorly targeted levies can suppress consumption, undermine recovery and fuel social discontent at a time when policy credibility matters for both domestic stability and investor confidence.
By signalling his preference for Tinubu if he does not contest the 2027 race, Kachikwu positions himself as a potential kingmaker while using his platform to press for policy changes that he argues would better shield ordinary citizens. His remarks underline the political sensitivity of tax policy as elections approach.
As the start date for the reforms approaches, stakeholders across business, civil society and politics are expected to press for clarity on exemptions, thresholds and implementation mechanisms. Kachikwu’s call for review adds to those voices seeking adjustments to ensure the reforms do not exacerbate hardship for the majority of Nigerians.
Whether the administration will amend the measures in response to such appeals remains to be seen, but the debate underscores the need for transparent consultation and careful calibration if tax reform is to support, rather than hinder, inclusive economic recovery.
Key Takeaways:
- Former ADC candidate Dumebi Kachikwu says he would support President Bola Tinubu in 2027 if he does not run himself and praises some of the president’s initiatives.
- Kachikwu urges a review of the new Nigeria tax reform due to take effect on 1 January 2026, warning it could burden ordinary citizens.
- He acknowledges the 2023 economic challenges that required tough measures but warns the tax changes may benefit the privileged few rather than the masses.
- The appeal highlights potential political and social consequences if the policy is not adjusted to protect vulnerable households.
