Every Nigerian who earns an income from sex workers to street touts has a legal duty to declare it, says Taiwo Oyedele, chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee.
Speaking during an interactive session with journalists and analysts on Friday, Oyedele stressed that the obligation to “self-declare” income is not a new law but an existing responsibility now being enforced more strictly.
“The law says everyone who earns an income must declare it. That includes sex workers, agberos, accountants, waiters — everyone,” Oyedele explained. “The new tax laws are not introducing fresh taxes; they are simply ensuring compliance.”
President Bola Tinubu had signed four major tax reform bills into law on June 26, which will take effect from January 1, 2026.
Oyedele clarified that morality or legality do not determine tax obligations. “Globally, tax authorities don’t ask whether an income is legal or moral. Even in the US, the IRS states that if you steal, you must declare it for tax purposes,” he said.
He also revealed that undeclared income can still be traced through spending, savings, or investments. “When you earn money, you either spend, save, or invest — all with third parties. The system can validate it,” he added.
The committee chairman maintained that the new laws focus on fairness and transparency. “Everyone who earns must contribute to nation-building,” he said.
