The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has clarified that the National Identification Number (NIN) issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) now automatically serves as the Tax Identification Number (TIN) for individual Nigerians.

The clarification was made on Monday as part of a public awareness campaign on the new tax laws, which the Service shared via its official X handle.

According to the FIRS, the revised framework eliminates the need for individuals to obtain a separate TIN, as their NIN will henceforth function as their unique tax identifier.

The Service also explained that registered businesses will no longer require a distinct Tax Identification Number, as their Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration number will now serve as their official tax identifier under the new system.

The clarification follows public concerns over provisions in the new tax laws that require a Tax ID for certain transactions, including bank account ownership.

The FIRS stated that the Nigeria Tax Administration Act (NTAA), which is scheduled to take effect in January 2026, mandates the use of a Tax ID for specified financial and administrative transactions.

It, however, emphasised that the requirement is not new, noting that it has existed since the enactment of the Finance Act of 2019 but has now been strengthened and consolidated under the NTAA.

“The Tax ID unifies all Tax Identification Numbers previously issued by the FIRS and State Internal Revenue Services into a single identifier,” the Service said.

It added that for individuals, the NIN automatically serves as the Tax ID, while for registered companies, the CAC Registration (RC) number is used.

“You do not need a physical card, as the Tax ID is a unique number linked directly to your identity,” the FIRS said.

The Service explained that the new system is designed to simplify taxpayer identification, eliminate duplication, curb tax evasion and promote equity by ensuring that all individuals with taxable income contribute appropriately.

The FIRS further urged Nigerians to disregard misinformation surrounding the reform, assuring the public that the updated tax framework is aimed at improving efficiency, transparency and effectiveness in tax administration across the country.