FCT-IRS Extends Tax Filing Deadline to April 30, Urges Residents to Comply
The Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service has announced a significant extension of the deadline for filing individual annual income tax returns. The new deadline is now April 30, 2026, representing a one-month extension from the original statutory date of March 31.
Official Announcement and Rationale
The extension was formally declared in a statement posted on the agency's official X page on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. The announcement was signed by the agency's acting Executive Chairman, Michael Ango, who emphasized that while March 31 remains the statutory deadline under Nigerian tax laws, this extension is specifically designed to provide taxpayers with additional time to submit accurate returns and enhance overall compliance within the Federal Capital Territory.
Ango stressed that voluntary tax compliance represents both a civic responsibility and a crucial contribution to national development. He urged all residents to take full advantage of this extended window to fulfill their tax obligations properly and avoid potential penalties.
Mandatory Electronic Filing Requirement
The FCT-IRS has reiterated that electronic filing through its official tax portal remains the mandatory and approved channel for submitting annual returns. This requirement is part of the agency's ongoing efforts to strengthen its digital tax administration system and improve overall service delivery to taxpayers.
Taxpayers are strongly encouraged to complete their filings promptly through the designated portal to ensure timely processing and avoid last-minute complications that could arise from system congestion as the new deadline approaches.
Importance of Accurate Personal Information
Acting Executive Chairman Ango also provided crucial advice regarding personal information accuracy. He emphasized that individuals must ensure their personal details—including National Identification Number, current phone numbers, and correct addresses—are properly provided during registration on the platform.
Incorrect or incomplete information can lead to significant delays in processing tax returns and may create complications for taxpayers. The agency has assured that taxpayers requiring assistance can visit any FCT-IRS office or contact the agency through its official communication channels for support with the filing process.
Similar Extension in Lagos State
This move by the FCT-IRS follows a similar extension implemented by the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, which recently shifted its deadline for filing individual income tax returns to April 14. The LIRS extension, announced by Executive Chairman Ayodele Subair, was also aimed at providing taxpayers with additional time to submit accurate and complete returns.
Despite these deadline extensions, tax authorities in both jurisdictions have warned taxpayers against complacency. They emphasize that filing annual tax returns should become a routine obligation rather than a last-minute scramble, and that extensions should be viewed as one-off concessions rather than establishing new norms.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Tax authorities have reminded residents that failure to declare all income sources and file returns on time may result in penalties and fines. Early filing is strongly recommended to avoid last-minute delays and to allow sufficient time to resolve any issues that might arise during the submission process.
The extension provides a valuable opportunity for taxpayers to review their financial records, ensure accuracy in their submissions, and contribute to the development of infrastructure and public services through their tax payments.
