In a significant move to modernise Nigeria's revenue system, the federal government has announced that a new national Tax Identification (ID) portal will become fully operational on January 1, 2026. The initiative, spearheaded by the Joint Revenue Board (JRB) and the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS), aims to create a unified system for all taxpayers across the country.
How the New Tax Identification System Works
The cornerstone of this reform is the introduction of a unique, system-generated Tax ID number for every taxable person and entity in Nigeria. For individuals, this new identifier will be directly linked to their National Identification Number (NIN). For businesses and organisations, it will be tied to their Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration number.
This new Tax ID will replace all previously issued tax identification numbers, consolidating them into a single, harmonised system. The JRB emphasised that the primary purpose of the ID is for tax administration and streamlining taxpayer identification nationwide.
Clarifications and Steps to Retrieve Your Tax ID
Addressing widespread public concerns, the revenue authorities issued a crucial clarification. The JRB stated that the new Tax ID will not lead to automatic bank account deductions or closures due to non-compliance. This announcement seeks to dispel rumours and misinformation that have caused anxiety among citizens.
Once the portal goes live, taxpayers are urged to retrieve their new Tax ID through the designated online platform or by visiting the nearest tax office for assistance. The process has been designed to be straightforward:
- Visit the official JTB portal at tin.jtb.gov.ng.
- Select the section applicable to you (individual or business).
- For individuals, enter your NIN, which will serve as your Tax ID base.
- Fill in the required basic information. The JRB confirms that no biometrics or physical card is required for this process.
- Submit your details to receive your Tax ID.
The service is free of charge. Individuals who already possess a Tax Identification Number (TIN) do not need to apply for a new one, as existing TINs will remain valid under the new system.
Broader Context of Nigeria's Tax Modernisation
This portal launch is a key component of the broader tax reforms scheduled to take effect in January 2026. According to earlier statements by tax policy chairman Taiwo Oyedele, the reforms are intended to ease, not increase, the tax burden for the majority of Nigerians.
The revised laws are expected to benefit individuals, small enterprises, and large companies. A central promise is that those within the lowest 98% of income earners will pay less tax or no tax at all. Furthermore, Value-Added Tax (VAT) on essential goods and services like food, education, and healthcare is set to be eliminated, aiming to reduce the overall cost of living.
The launch of the Tax ID portal marks a pivotal step in the government's efforts to digitise and harmonise tax administration, promising greater efficiency and transparency for Nigeria's economy.
