The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has dismissed reports claiming Nigerians must obtain a separate Tax Identification Number (TIN) before opening or operating a bank account.
The agency explained that under the new framework introduced by the Nigeria Tax Administration Act (2025), the TIN is automatically integrated with existing national registries such as the National Identification Number (NIN) for individuals and the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) records for businesses.
The clarification followed public concerns sparked by media reports suggesting that from January 2026, Nigerians would be required to present a TIN to access banking services.
Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, Technical Assistant on Broadcast Media to FIRS Chairman, Zacch Adedeji, said the reports were misleading.
In a post on her official X handle, she explained that the TIN is not a new hurdle but a unique 13-digit identifier linked to existing national databases.
“For individuals, once you provide your NIN, the system automatically retrieves your TIN during bank account opening or Know Your Customer (KYC) processes,” she said.
“Businesses and other legal entities are covered through their CAC registration numbers.”
Atoyebi added that the framework enhances inclusivity, streamlines banking access, and strengthens fraud prevention.
“Far from being an obstacle, the TIN ensures automatic tax compliance, transparency, and global compatibility without burdening citizens with extra documentation,” she stated.
She stressed that a Nigerian with a valid NIN is already tax-compliant, as banks can retrieve the TIN directly during onboarding.