ASABA, DELTA STATE – The Federal Government’s incoming New Tax Law, slated for implementation on January 1, 2026, was designed primarily to benefit Nigerian citizens while demanding strict digital compliance to avoid severe penalties.
This was the consensus among experts during an educational panel discussion organized by the Delta Online Publisher’s Forum (DOPF) in Asaba on Thursday, November 27, 2025.
The panelists stressed that public adherence was crucial to the system’s success.
The discussion, moderated by Mr. Lawrence Okpewho, featured insights from Mr. Victor Fegor Origho, a tax expert, Barr. Martins Onyem and Barr. Ikpesus Jade, both legal Practitioners in Delta State of Nigeria
Sharing a profound insight on the new tax law, Mr. Origho emphasized the taxpayer-centric nature of the reform. “The core purpose of the new law is to benefit Nigerians,” he stated, adding that the government itself gains less from the restructured system.
He highlighted a major relief for low-income earners, stating that substantial N800,000 (Eight Hundred Thousand Naira) was going to attract zero tax threshold, explaining that individuals earning below this amount will not be subjected to income tax.
Mr. Erigho reiterated that Mandatory Digital Compliance, was a defining characteristic of the upcoming system, maintaining that its full digitalization would compel compliance
“This shift necessitates a significant change in citizens’ financial habits.” Mr. Origho added
He issued a strong advisory to Nigerians “Nigerians must keep documentation for all funds received.” He cautioned that a lack of proper records could lead to funds being “assumed that it’s for business,” potentially making them taxable.
While emphasizing the role of the new tax regime, the legal experts on the panel underscored the mandatory nature of the new law and the serious consequences of non-compliance.
Barr. Martins Onyem gave a stern warning regarding adherence. He firmly advised that once the tax regime begins, responsible citizens must “brace up and adhere” to it.
In a serious note on enforcement, Barr. Onyem further disclosed a key enforcement change will begin and disclosed that tax authorities will now monitor Bank accounts just as he warned that penalties for non-compliance would be strictly enforced.
Barr. Ikpesus Jade also stressed the necessity for citizens to become acquainted with the tax law, particularly the required timing for filing annual returns to prevent being penalized for defaults.
It was also revealed that under the new standard procedure, individuals are expected to file the income of the previous year and simultaneously project actuals for the incoming year.
