The Federal Government has introduced a new Taxpayer Identification (Tax ID) system aimed at creating a unified tax identity for all taxable individuals and businesses across Nigeria.
The initiative, unveiled through the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) and the Joint Revenue Board (JRB), will replace the existing Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) system currently used for taxpayer verification and administration.
Under the new framework, every taxpayer will be assigned a single Tax ID that will serve as the official identity for all tax-related transactions across federal, state, and local government tax systems.
The new Tax ID system will also replace the current TIN Validation Application Programming Interface (API) used by Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), banks, and other institutions for taxpayer verification.
According to the government, the reform is designed to improve tax administration by harmonising taxpayer records nationwide and creating a more efficient, transparent, and accountable tax management system.
Officials explained that the initiative is expected to streamline tax processes, reduce duplication of taxpayer records, strengthen data integrity, and improve coordination among tax authorities at all levels of government.
The government further noted that the policy would help plug revenue leakages, enhance compliance, and provide a unified national database of taxpayers.
Among the key benefits highlighted are the use of a single Tax ID for all tax matters, simplified registration and filing procedures, improved transparency in taxpayer management, enhanced accountability, and more effective monitoring of tax obligations.
Authorities stressed that the introduction of the new Tax ID system does not amount to the creation of new taxes or additional tax burdens on individuals and businesses.
Rather, the reform is intended solely to modernise the administration of existing taxes as part of broader efforts to strengthen public finance management, improve service delivery, and build a more efficient tax system capable of supporting national development.
The government has advised organisations, financial institutions, and public agencies that require taxpayer verification or integration with the new Tax ID platform to contact the relevant authorities for guidance.
For individuals, small enterprises, and registered business names, inquiries and integration requests can be directed to the Joint Revenue Board through its designated support channels.
The new Tax ID system forms part of ongoing fiscal and tax reforms aimed at enhancing revenue administration and promoting a seamless tax experience for Nigerians.