A Nigerian man has stirred conversations on social media after calling out his barber for introducing a 7.5% Value Added Tax (VAT) on customers’ bills.
According to a notice from the barber that has since gone viral online, customers were informed that effective January 1, 2026, a 7.5% VAT would be added to every payment made at the barbing salon.
The barber explained that the decision was not arbitrary but was made in compliance with new mandatory regulations by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). The notice noted that the move aligns with the federal government’s broader enforcement of tax policies expected to take effect this year.
In the message addressed to customers, the barber apologised for any inconvenience the new charge might cause and thanked patrons for their continued support, assuring them of improved service delivery going forward.
However, the announcement did not sit well with many Nigerians online. Social media users were quick to question when small businesses like barbing salons began charging VAT, a practice many associate strictly with large corporations.
Reacting online, one user wrote,
“So after a ₦5k haircut, I’ll now pay VAT? Nigeria is not a real place.”
Another commenter offered a different perspective, saying,
“Small businesses are just trying to survive. If FIRS dey disturb them, what do you expect?”
The development has once again ignited debates around taxation, small businesses, and the rising cost of everyday services in Nigeria. Whether the barber’s move is a case of strict regulatory compliance or an unnecessary burden on customers, one thing is clear — in today’s Nigeria, even a simple haircut is no longer safe from VAT discussions.
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Published by Ejoh Caleb
