Attorney General Drops Demand Over $1.9bn Alleged Tax Claim From MTN Nigeria

MTN Nigeria has announced that its legal counsel has received a letter dated 8 January 2020 from the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice (the AGF) formally withdrawing his demand for N242,244,452,215.97 and USD$1,283,610,357.86 alleged revenue indebtedness.

The letter stated that following careful review and due consultation with relevant statutory agencies, the AGF has decided to refer the matter to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) with a view to resolving contentious issues.

MTN will consequently follow due court process to withdraw its legal action against the AGF and engage with the FIRS and Customs the issues.

MTN remains committed to conducting its business in accordance with applicable laws in Nigeria.

Expressing satisfaction at the development, MTN Nigeria CEO, Ferdi Moolman said “we are very pleased with the decision of the AGF and we commend him for his wisdom. We maintain our dedication to building and maintaining cordial relationships with all regulatory authorities in Nigeria and remain fully committed to meeting our fiscal responsibilities and contributing to the social and economic development of Nigeria.’’

MTN will consequently follow due court process to withdraw its legal action against the AGF and engage with the FIRS and Customs on the issues.

The telecoms giant also expressed its commitment to conducting its business in accordance with applicable laws in Nigeria.