LIRS Grants Two-Week Extension for Individual Tax Return Filing
The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has officially announced a significant extension to the deadline for filing individual annual tax returns. The new deadline has been moved from April 1 to April 14, 2026, providing taxpayers with an additional two weeks to complete their submissions.
Official Announcement and Rationale
This extension was formally communicated on Monday through a press statement issued by Monsurat Amasa-Oyelude, Head of Corporate Communications at LIRS. The statement included detailed remarks from Dr. Ayodele Subair, the Executive Chairman of LIRS, who emphasized the importance of this administrative adjustment.
Dr. Subair clarified that while the statutory deadline for filing individual annual tax returns is traditionally March 31 of each year, this extension has been implemented specifically to grant individuals more time to prepare and submit accurate tax documentation. "The extension is intended to provide individuals with additional time to complete and submit accurate tax returns," he explained, highlighting the service's commitment to facilitating compliance.
Mandatory Electronic Filing Requirements
In his statement, Dr. Subair reiterated that electronic filing through the LIRS eTax platform remains the only approved method for submitting annual returns. Manual filing processes have been completely phased out, making digital submission compulsory for all taxpayers.
Individuals are therefore required to file their returns exclusively through the official LIRS eTax portal. Dr. Subair described the platform as secure, user-friendly, and accessible 24/7, while also advising taxpayers to ensure their Tax Identification Number (TaxID) is correctly captured during the submission process to avoid processing delays.
Compliance and Taxpayer Responsibilities
Dr. Subair stressed that individuals must prioritize the timely filing of their annual income tax returns, noting that compliance should be embedded as a routine personal practice. This extension, while providing relief, does not diminish the fundamental obligation of taxpayers to meet their filing responsibilities accurately and punctually.
Available Support Channels
For taxpayers requiring assistance or having inquiries, LIRS has provided multiple contact channels:
- Visit any LIRS office in person
- Official website: www.lirs.gov.ng
- Social media platforms: Facebook and LinkedIn (Lagos State Internal Revenue Service), Instagram and YouTube (@lirsgovng), X (@lirs_govng)
- Email: [email protected]
- Customer Care Hotline: 0700-CALL-LIRS (0700-2255-5477)
This comprehensive support system is designed to help taxpayers navigate the filing process efficiently and address any challenges they may encounter before the extended deadline of April 14, 2026.
