The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged the Federal Government to exercise caution and fairness in the implementation of ongoing tax and fiscal reforms, warning that poorly managed policies could further deepen the hardship faced by millions of Nigerians.
CAN made the call on Thursday in a new year message signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh.
The Christian body said while reforms may be necessary to strengthen the economy, they must not come at the expense of low-income earners, small businesses and rural communities already struggling with rising living costs.
Okoh noted that the past year was marked by severe economic pressure on households, with inflation, high prices of essential goods and shrinking disposable income placing enormous strain on families.
According to CAN, tax policies that fail to take these realities into account risk worsening poverty and widening inequality.
CAN stressed that economic progress should be measured by its impact on ordinary citizens, arguing that reforms must translate into affordable food, accessible healthcare, attainable education and the availability of decent jobs. It cautioned that increased tax burdens without corresponding improvements in social services would undermine public trust and confidence in governance.
The Christian body called on government at all levels to ensure that tax reforms are guided by wisdom, equity and restraint, and are designed to support inclusive recovery rather than stifle productivity.
It specifically appealed for deliberate protections for small and medium-scale enterprises, artisans and informal sector workers who form the backbone of the economy.
Archbishop Okoh also linked economic policies to broader moral concerns, noting that corruption, lack of accountability and injustice often negate the intended benefits of reforms.
He said transparent and responsible leadership was essential for tax policies to achieve their purpose and deliver real value to citizens.
Reaffirming the Church’s commitment to stand with the people, CAN urged leaders to prioritise the common good in fiscal decision-making, expressing hope that 2026 would mark a turning point where economic policies, including taxation, ease hardship and restore dignity to Nigerians.
