September 18, 2025

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has confirmed that its newly implemented Tax Identification Number (TIN) framework is fully integrated with existing national databases, including the National Identification Number (NIN) for individuals and Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) records for registered entities. Recent speculation on social media suggested that, beginning January 2026, Nigerians would be required to present a TIN to open or maintain a bank account. However, this interpretation has been officially refuted. According to Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, Technical Assistant on Broadcast Media to the Executive Chairman of FIRS, Zacch Adedeji, these reports are misleading. In a public statement, she clarified that the current system automatically generates and links TINs to existing identifiers—NIN for individuals and RC Numbers for businesses—eliminating the need for separate TIN applications or physical presentation during banking or Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures. The TIN is a 13-digit unique identifier that encodes key data such as: For individuals, the TIN is automatically derived from the NIN issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). When customers provide their NIN during bank account opening or KYC processes, the system validates the information against national databases and retrieves the corresponding TIN in real time. Similarly, for companies and other legal entities—including cooperatives, professional associations, and partnerships—the TIN is directly linked to their CAC registration number or relevant statutory registry. Banks and regulatory bodies can verify tax compliance seamlessly using these existing identifiers, without requesting additional documentation. Atoyebi further emphasized the benefits of the integrated framework, including: She concluded by reaffirming that no Nigerian will be denied banking services due to the absence of a separately issued TIN. The automated linkage ensures built-in compliance, positioning the framework as a key driver of financial inclusion and digital economic growth. For professional advice on Accountancy, Transfer Pricing, Tax, Assurance, Outsourcing, online accounting support, Company Registration, and CAC matters, please contact Inner Konsult Ltd at www.innerkonsult.com at Lagos, Ogun state Nigeria offices. You can also reach us via WhatsApp at +2348038460036.

As part of the newly enacted Nigeria Tax Reform Acts (2025), the Federal Government will, effective January 1, 2026, reinstate Value Added Tax (VAT) and customs duties on: These changes reverse previous exemptions and are part of broader fiscal reforms aimed at increasing Nigeria’s tax-to-GDP ratio and consolidating tax administration under the new Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) and Joint Revenue Board. Key Implications for Airlines Recommendations for Policy Makers Conclusion The reinstatement of VAT and duties in aviation reflects Nigeria’s push to expand its fiscal base, but the sector’s fragility calls for measured implementation. Poorly timed taxation could reduce connectivity, raise fares, and deter investment. A balanced, globally-aligned approach is essential. For professional advice on Accountancy, Transfer Pricing, Tax, Assurance, Outsourcing, online accounting support, Company Registration, and CAC matters, please contact Inner Konsult Ltd at www.innerkonsult.com at Lagos, Ogun state Nigeria offices. You can also reach us via WhatsApp at +2348038460036.

At a recent strategic engagement hosted by the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, emphasized that the successful implementation of Nigeria’s new tax laws will require strong collaboration across all levels of government and the private sector. Speaking in Abuja, Adedeji noted that the FIRS—currently transitioning into the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS)—cannot deliver the objectives of the reforms in isolation. He called for active cooperation from subnational governments, institutions, and taxpayers, stating that the reforms’ success depends on shared ownership and collective execution. “Our collective posture should be one of readiness to listen, adapt, and deliver,” Adedeji said, highlighting capacity building as a key pillar of the reform agenda. He reiterated the agency’s commitment to: Adedeji further tasked tax agency leadership with equipping officers with the tools, skills, and confidence required for modern tax administration, including: Economic Gains, But Reform Efforts Must Deepen – Oyedele Also speaking at the session, Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, pointed to early signs of macroeconomic improvement under the Tinubu administration. According to Oyedele: While acknowledging these gains, Oyedele stressed the importance of deepening reform implementation to ensure the macroeconomic progress translates to poverty reduction and job creation. For professional advice on Accountancy, Transfer Pricing, Tax, Assurance, Outsourcing, online accounting support, Company Registration, and CAC matters, please contact Inner Konsult Ltd at www.innerkonsult.com at Lagos, Ogun state Nigeria offices. You can also reach us via WhatsApp at +2348038460036.