By Erewunmi Peace

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has announced that the National Identification Number (NIN) will now serve as the automatic Tax Identification Number for individual Nigerians.

According to the tax authority, the new arrangement is part of ongoing reforms aimed at simplifying tax administration and reducing the need for multiple identification numbers across government agencies.

Under the new system, individuals will no longer be required to apply separately for a Tax Identification Number, as their existing NIN will be used for tax-related records and transactions.

FIRS explained that the move is designed to improve efficiency, enhance data accuracy, and strengthen tax compliance nationwide.

The agency noted that linking tax records to NIN will make it easier to track tax obligations while reducing duplication within the system.

For businesses, the service clarified that registered companies will continue to use their Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration numbers as their tax identifiers.

The announcement has generated mixed reactions among Nigerians, with some welcoming the policy as a step toward easier tax administration, while others have raised concerns about data privacy and implementation.

FIRS has assured the public that necessary safeguards are in place and that further public enlightenment will be carried out ahead of full implementation.

The new tax identification framework is expected to take effect in line with the country’s updated tax administration laws.