The Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced a mandatory Tax Identification Number (TIN) policy for all taxable Nigerians as part of efforts to reform the nation’s tax system and boost revenue generation.
The new directive, which is expected to take full effect from January 2026, will require individuals and businesses engaged in taxable activities to obtain and link their Tax Identification Numbers to financial and official transactions.
The policy is being implemented under the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025, in collaboration with the Joint Revenue Board (JRB) and relevant financial institutions across the country.
Speaking on the development, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, explained that the initiative is aimed at simplifying tax administration, improving compliance, and expanding Nigeria’s tax net.
According to him, banks will begin requesting Tax Identification Numbers from customers operating taxable accounts. He, however, clarified that Nigerians without taxable income, including students and dependents, would not be affected by the requirement.
Several commercial banks have already started informing customers that accounts without linked TINs and National Identification Numbers (NINs) may face restrictions once enforcement begins.
The Federal Government said the reform is designed to modernize tax collection, reduce tax evasion, and improve transparency in the country’s revenue system.
