KPMG Nigeria has issued a statement clarifying that its recent newsletter on the country’s newly enacted tax laws was intended to support understanding and smooth implementation, rather than to criticise government policy.
Okay News reports that the clarification came on Saturday in response to varied public reactions and what the firm described as misinterpretations of the publication’s purpose.
KPMG emphasised that the document was not designed to undermine confidence in the reforms or question the government’s fiscal direction.
Instead, it aimed to facilitate clarity in interpreting the tax laws, enhance effective and efficient administration, reduce or eliminate unintended consequences or disputes, and promote overall confidence in the tax system through timely guidance and refinement.
The firm described Nigeria’s recent tax reforms—now codified into law—as a significant and transformational step in the country’s fiscal and economic management.
KPMG noted that, if properly implemented, the reforms hold strong potential to improve revenue generation, strengthen tax administration, and place Nigeria on a more sustainable fiscal path.
However, the firm pointed out that complex legislation of this scale typically requires ongoing review and refinement after enactment to prevent administrative challenges or disputes.
KPMG explained that its newsletter highlighted areas where further clarity or adjustments may be necessary to ensure the laws achieve their intended objectives without creating avoidable issues.
The firm stressed that post-enactment reviews and calls for legislative refinement are standard global practices and not unique to Nigeria.
Such processes help ensure laws remain practical and effective while supporting taxpayers, businesses, and tax administrators.
The statement comes after the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, chaired by Taiwo Oyedele, faulted several observations made by KPMG, describing most as misunderstandings of policy intent or disagreements with deliberate reform choices rather than actual errors.
KPMG maintained that its analysis was constructive and aimed at assisting all stakeholders in navigating the reforms successfully.
Professional services firms like KPMG, PwC, and Deloitte routinely publish technical notes and commentaries to help interpret new regulations and support compliance.
