7.5% VAT Deductions On Voice Calls, Other Inquires Should Be Directed To FIRS – Minister

Isa Pantami, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy has noted that the 7.5 percent Value Added Tax (VAT) deductions on voice calls and text messages, were under the jurisdiction of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).

He made this clarification in a statement, which was signed by his spokesperson, Mrs. Uwa Suleiman, and was made available to newsmen yesterday in Abuja.

According to the statement, the ministry does not have the duty to handle the issue.

The Minister explained that the ministry was inundated with complaints and inquiries concerning the recent 7.5 percent VAT deductions on voice calls and text messages, by some Mobile Network Operators (MNOs).

“We also wish to notify the general public that contrary to opinion in some quarters, I had no prior consultation or awareness about this development,’’ he said.

He, therefore, advised that inquiries and clarifications should be sent to the FIRS, as they are the proper institution mandated to review VAT matters.

Pantami, however, assured that the interests of Nigerians would be protected in that aspect.

“We appreciate the support and efforts of well-meaning Nigerians who have sought clarifications in a civil manner,” he said.