The Joint Tax Board (JTB) says it is adopting the National Identification Number (NIN) as the unique Tax Identification Number (Tax ID) for Nigerians, in a move aimed at simplifying compliance and creating a harmonised national tax system.
The Board, working with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and state tax authorities, says the new arrangement will ensure that every Nigerian with a NIN is automatically assigned a Tax ID, while businesses will use their Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration numbers for tax purposes.
“This initiative will enable the seamless and automatic generation of Tax IDs for individuals with NIN and businesses with RC, thereby making it easier for Nigerians to comply with tax requirements without any disruption to their banking and/or financial activities,” the JTB explains in a statement seen by Technology Times.
The clarification follows reports suggesting that Nigerians without a Tax ID may be denied access to their bank accounts from January 1, 2026. The JTB says such claims are misleading, adding that citizens will continue to access their accounts and carry out financial transactions beyond the deadline.
Automatic generation of Tax IDs for persons with NIN
The clarification follows reports suggesting that Nigerians without a Tax ID may be denied access to their bank accounts from January 1, 2026. The JTB says such claims are misleading, adding that citizens will continue to access their accounts and carry out financial transactions beyond the deadline.
According to the Board, the harmonised tax system forms part of the broader reforms championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to make Nigeria’s tax regime “simpler, fairer, and more inclusive.” The reforms are also targeting the elimination of multiple taxation, reduced rates for the majority of Nigerians, and exemptions for vulnerable groups and small businesses.
Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, clarifies that the adoption of NIN is designed to reduce duplication and streamline processes. “Your existing TIN remains valid. If you already have one, you do not need to register again. For those without a TIN, you will need your NIN (individuals) or CAC registration documents (companies) to process your Tax ID,” he says.
“Ultimately, your NIN (for individuals) and CAC RC number (for companies) will serve as your Tax ID, reducing duplication and simplifying compliance,” Oyedele adds.
The JTB also highlights that Nigerians in the diaspora can now obtain a Tax ID using their NIN through a simplified process on the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) website, enabling them to carry out banking and investment activities in Nigeria.
Reiterating its stance, the Board urges Nigerians to disregard contrary reports and affirms its commitment to implementing “people-centred tax policies that promote economic growth, fairness, and ease of doing business while ensuring that Nigeria remains a tax-friendly environment.”
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