The federal government has told every Nigerian to file annual tax returns by 31st March 2026, as new tax laws take effect, officials said.
Taiwo Oyedele, chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, said the deadline covers returns “by 31st March of the year in respect of the previous fiscal year,” and insisted the requirement applies to all taxpayers — including low-income earners.
“All of us must file our returns, including those earning low income,” he said.
Oyedele said tax authorities are working to make filing simpler and more accessible across states.
“I’m sure the tax authorities, joint revenue boards, and various state internal revenue services are working on how to make this process simpler and easier,” he said, urging Nigerians to cooperate.
He warned businesses that benefit from tax incentives they must now disclose them when filing.
“Under the new tax law … you have the obligation to disclose those incentives,” Oyedele said, adding the disclosure rule is meant to improve transparency and compliance.
Officials say the new rules aim to widen the tax base and strengthen revenue collection after the major reforms enacted last year.
Tax authorities have promised public guidance and online tools to help citizens meet the 31st March deadline.
