The Catholic Bishops of the Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province have urged the Federal Government to implement ongoing tax reforms in a manner that is fair, transparent and compassionate. They warned that policies lacking a human focus could increase hardship for poor and vulnerable citizens.

The bishops made the comments in a communiqué issued at the end of their first provincial meeting for 2026. The meeting was held from January 19 to 20 at the Jubilee Conference Centre in Ibadan.

In the document titled “Sustaining Hope and Strengthening Our Good Efforts,” the bishops acknowledged the Federal Government’s efforts to reform Nigeria’s tax system. They noted, however, that the implementation of the reforms has sparked controversy and anxiety across the country, especially among poor and vulnerable Nigerians.

The bishops said tax policies must be guided by fairness, transparency and accountability. They called on authorities to give the reforms a “human face” and allow time for the most vulnerable to adjust to the new tax framework before the full force of the laws is applied.

They said economic policies that lack sensitivity to the struggles of ordinary Nigerians risk deepening inequality and social tension.

Beyond tax reforms, the bishops reflected on other national issues. They expressed concern over the impact of ongoing health workers’ strikes on access to healthcare and described the situation as causing unnecessary suffering and avoidable deaths. They urged government authorities to address these issues urgently.

The bishops also called on governments at all levels to uphold their primary duties of protecting lives and property, improving basic services and infrastructure, and creating an environment that supports economic growth.

The bishops’ appeal highlights how tax reforms and other government policies can affect everyday Nigerians, especially those with low incomes. Their call for fairness and compassion reflects broader concerns about economic hardship and social well‑being.

The Federal Government has not issued an immediate response to the bishops’ communique. Public discussions on tax reforms and their effects are expected to continue as implementation progresses and as citizens express views on the new policies.