{FROM OUR BUSINESS DESK, Abuja}
Nigeria is making significant strides in tax reform by prohibiting the collection of road taxes at roadside checkpoints and through stickers, a longstanding annoyance for drivers.
This decision is part of the new tax regulations that took effect nationwide in 2026, aimed at modernizing tax management and alleviating the harassment faced by motorists.
The Joint Revenue Board (JRB) has confirmed that all types of roadside charges, including road tax stickers, are now illegal. Drivers are no longer obligated to stop at checkpoints for fee payments, a system that often faced inconsistencies and exploitation by officials.
“This is a significant victory for drivers and a move towards transparent taxation,” stated the JRB. Law enforcement agencies have been instructed to eliminate illegal checkpoints and ensure strict adherence to the new law.
Historically, Nigerian drivers faced numerous roadside levies under various aliases, leading to confusion and potential for corruption. With the abolishment of these practices, the government aims to:
• Safeguard motorists from unlawful collections and intimidation
• Simplify tax administration within the new centralized framework
• Enhance voluntary compliance by clarifying and promoting fair tax obligations.
According to the new legislation, previously issued road tax stickers at state checkpoints are no longer valid. Motorists can expect no stops or payments related to road taxes on highways. Monitoring agencies are ensuring compliance for full enforcement.
The Joint Revenue Board (JRB) has officially stated that all roadside road tax collections are entirely forbidden. Drivers can now operate without the fear of abrupt stops or requests for fees that were often unpredictable and sometimes abusive.
Security agencies have been ordered to swiftly dismantle illegal checkpoints.
