Author: James Obasi

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has announced that starting in 2026, Nigeria’s National Identification Number (NIN) will automatically function as the Tax Identification Number (TIN) for individuals, while Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration numbers will serve as the tax IDs for registered businesses. The clarification was made on Monday via a public awareness campaign on X, addressing concerns surrounding the newly introduced tax laws. Under the revised framework, individuals and companies will no longer be required to obtain separate TINs for tax-related transactions, including banking and business operations. According to the FIRS, the changes are anchored in the Nigeria Tax Administration Act (NTAA), which comes into effect in January 2026. While the law mandates the use of a Tax ID for specific transactions, the Service noted that this requirement has existed since the Finance Act of 2019 but has now been strengthened and streamlined. “The Tax ID harmonises all previously issued tax identification numbers by the FIRS and State Internal Revenue Services into a single identifier,” the agency said. “For individuals, the NIN serves as the Tax ID, while companies will use their CAC RC numbers. No physical card is required, as the Tax ID is a unique number directly linked to one’s identity.” The FIRS explained that the initiative is aimed at simplifying identification, reducing duplication, closing loopholes that enable tax evasion, and promoting fairness in the tax system by ensuring that all eligible income earners are captured. The agency also advised Nigerians to disregard misinformation about the reforms, assuring that the new tax framework is designed to enhance efficiency and transparency in tax administration. Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, disclosed that from January 1, 2026, banks will be required to request a TIN from all taxable Nigerians as part of the federal government’s updated tax administration framework.

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s maritime sector have raised concerns that the country is losing billions of naira due to persistent container blockages at Lagos ports, a situation that has triggered outrage and renewed calls for an end to overlapping port clearance procedures involving the Maritime Police. The stakeholders accused officers of the Maritime Police Command of being responsible for numerous container blockages at the Lagos ports. Container blockage involves the detention or restriction of cargo containers within the port or logistics chain after arrival for clearance—and in some cases, even after the containers have been cleared by the appropriate authorities—preventing their movement to final destinations. The allegations were made in Lagos during a stakeholders’ forum organised by the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC). Participants at the event, including representatives of freight forwarding associations, truck owners, terminal operators, and importers, claimed that more than 1,500 containers valued at billions of naira are allegedly blocked each month. They said the practice often relies on vessel manifests and results in significant financial losses. According to the stakeholders, detaining cargo that has already passed examination and received clearance from the Nigeria Customs Service and other government agencies undermines regulatory coordination and weakens process integrity at the ports. They noted that such delays expose importers to excessive demurrage and storage charges, increase the risk of contract defaults, and damage Nigeria’s reputation among international trading partners. Speaking at the forum, the General Manager of Port and Terminal Multiservices Limited, Babatunde Keshiro, attributed the problem to a lack of sincerity and the exercise of parallel authority. He said concerns about cargo should be addressed during examination, stressing that once goods have been cleared and released, there should be no further delays. Keshiro referenced a 2022 Executive Order directing an end to the interception of already cleared containers. Similarly, the Apapa Chapter Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents, Emeka Chukwumalu, stated that the Police should bear the cost of demurrage whenever containers are blocked after clearance. The PTML Chapter Chairman of the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents, Abayomi Duyile, accused shipping companies of facilitating the practice by releasing cargo manifests to the Police, describing the action as illegal and contrary to international shipping standards. Other contributors, including the President of the Association of Maritime Truck Owners, Remi Ogungbemi, and representatives of joint freight forwarding groups, warned that post-clearance container blockages disrupt port operations and shift inefficiencies and costs onto port users. Responding to the concerns, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Pius Akutah, said the council’s engagement with security agencies is aimed solely at protecting cargo interests and ensuring safety within the port environment. He explained that while the NSC works with the Police on cargo security, it also intervenes when complaints arise, noting that many disputes are resolved through such engagements. Also speaking, the Head of the NSC Complaints Unit, Bashir Ambi, denied allegations of extortion, stating that the unit does not collect fees for its services. He said the council consistently engages and challenges the Maritime Police over the blocking of containers that have already been cleared. Ambi urged stakeholders to resist making unreceipted payments and to submit formal petitions with evidence to the NSC for appropriate action. In response, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Maritime Police Command, Adebayo Rasheed, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, defended the practice, saying container blockages are intelligence-driven and necessary for national security. He cited recent interceptions of arms and illicit drugs concealed in already cleared containers, insisting that security considerations cannot be compromised for trade facilitation. Rasheed also encouraged stakeholders with evidence of extortion to report such cases to the relevant authorities, maintaining that container blocking by the Police remains necessary in the interest of national security.    

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has begun nationwide distribution of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) at a pump price of ₦739 per litre through all MRS Oil Nigeria Plc filling stations, marking a major step toward providing affordable fuel and stabilising Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector. In a statement issued on Sunday, the refinery noted that the new price would be reflected across more than 2,000 MRS stations nationwide, ensuring widespread access to the reduced rate. The company praised marketers that have adopted the pricing adjustment and encouraged others to do the same in support of the country’s economic recovery. According to the refinery, the move comes at a time when Nigerians usually experience fuel shortages and price increases during the festive season. By lowering prices during this period, the refinery aims to ease pressure on consumers and disrupt the long-standing cycle of scarcity and hikes. Supported by a guaranteed daily supply of 50 million litres, the initiative is expected to significantly improve fuel availability during the holidays. Local refining at scale is also helping to reduce reliance on volatile global markets, conserve foreign exchange, stabilise the naira, and enhance national energy security. The refinery stated that the sustained price reduction and steady supply are already offering relief to households, businesses, and transport operators across the country. It also warned against attempts by unscrupulous operators to create artificial scarcity in response to the price cut, calling on regulatory agencies to act firmly against such practices, especially during the festive period. Consumers were advised to avoid purchasing petrol at inflated prices when cheaper, locally refined options are available. The refinery urged Nigerians to report any MRS station selling above the approved ₦739 per litre price. Dangote Petroleum Refinery further appealed to other filling station operators to patronise its products so that the benefits of the price reduction can reach more Nigerians and promote stability in the downstream market. Reaffirming its long-term commitment, the refinery stressed that its operations are focused on ensuring steady supply, price moderation, and energy security in the national interest. “Our goal remains to provide Nigerians with consistent access to high-quality petroleum products at affordable prices, while strengthening economic stability and reducing dependence on imports,” the statement concluded.

As Nigeria counts down to the implementation of its tax reforms on January 1, 2026, the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, has moved to calm public anxiety, assuring Nigerians that the new tax regime is not intended to impose higher taxes or unfair revenue targets. Speaking at the 2025 Nigeria Media Merit Award (NMMA) ceremony in Lagos, Oyedele said the reform agenda is about more than tax rates and collections. According to him, it is fundamentally aimed at rebuilding trust between citizens and the state. “Tax reform is not just about rates or revenue. At its core, it is about the social contract between citizens and government. People want to know: Why should I pay tax? How is my money used? Is the system fair to everyone?” he said. Oyedele stressed that answering these concerns requires credible and informed media engagement, noting that tax issues are especially prone to misinformation because of their direct impact on people’s livelihoods. He added that a sustainable tax system must be built on fair laws, transparent administration, voluntary compliance and strong public oversight. Against this backdrop, the committee released clarifications on frequently asked questions about the Nigeria Tax Act (NTA) 2025, which takes effect in 2026. Key Clarifications on the New Tax Law The law applies to all individuals earning income in Nigeria, including workers, traders, content creators, influencers and remote workers. Nigerians earning income abroad are also covered if they are tax residents in Nigeria. Bank transfers, deposits, withdrawals and POS transactions are not taxable. Only income earned is taxed. Money kept in a bank account is not taxed; only income such as salary, business profits or interest applies. Students and individuals with no taxable income will not pay tax. Bank accounts may be monitored more closely for compliance, but balances themselves are not taxed. Loans are not taxable, though interest earned by lenders will be taxed. Sole proprietors registered as business names pay Personal Income Tax, while limited liability companies pay Company Income Tax. Capital gains on shares remain tax-free if the value sold does not exceed ₦150 million and gains are not above ₦10 million. Pensions, including disability pensions for injured soldiers, remain tax-exempt. Military salaries are exempt from tax. Profits from crypto assets, NFTs and other digital assets are taxable. Individuals earning the national minimum wage or less, or below ₦800,000 annually, are exempt from Personal Income Tax. New Progressive Tax Bands (from 2026): First ₦800,000: 0% Next ₦2.2 million: 15% Next ₦9 million: 18% Next ₦13 million: 21% Next ₦25 million: 23% Above ₦50 million: 25% Severance pay up to ₦50 million is tax-free; amounts above this will be taxed progressively. Dividends, interest, rent and royalties earned abroad are exempt if repatriated through approved banking channels. Agricultural companies enjoy a five-year tax holiday from the start of operations. Federal and State Government bonds remain tax-exempt. From 2026, individuals can claim rent relief of 20% of annual rent, capped at ₦500,000. A worker earning ₦6 million annually will see tax payable drop from ₦896,000 to ₦780,000, saving ₦116,000. Companies with turnover below ₦50 million are exempt from Company Income Tax. Remote workers in Nigeria for international organisations will pay tax if their income is exempt abroad. TIN and Bank Accounts Oyedele clarified that Nigerians without a Tax Identification Number (TIN) will not lose access to existing bank accounts from January 1, 2026. However, they will be required to provide a TIN over time, and opening new bank accounts without a TIN may not be allowed. He reaffirmed that the reforms are designed to protect low-income earners, promote fairness, and strengthen voluntary compliance, while positioning Nigeria’s tax system to support growth, inclusion and accountability.

The Guards Brigade of the Nigerian Army has issued a strong warning to terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements, declaring that they will face stiff resistance in 2026 and that no part of its area of responsibility will be allowed to serve as a safe haven. The Brigade Commander, Brigadier-General Adebisi Onasanya, gave the warning on Saturday during the annual Aso Rock ascent in Abuja, an exercise marking the end of the brigade’s training activities for the year. Onasanya described 2025 as a particularly demanding year for the formation, noting that beyond its core duty of protecting the President, the Guards Brigade recorded increased operational engagements across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and neighbouring areas. He said the brigade carried out multiple clearance operations in crime-prone locations, including Bwari, Abaji, Gwagwalada and parts of Niger State. According to him, these operations led to numerous arrests, the recovery of weapons and the neutralisation of several bandits. The commander also disclosed that criminal elements attempting to cause unrest within the FCT were apprehended and handled in accordance with the law. Onasanya attributed the successes recorded to sustained collaboration with other security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Department of State Services, as well as support from the Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Air Force. He praised officers and soldiers of the Guards Brigade for their professionalism and dedication, noting that the formation recorded no issues related to discipline or commitment throughout the year. He urged troops to remain resolute as the new year approaches, stressing that 2026 would demand even greater commitment, especially in line with the President’s declaration of a state of emergency in the security sector. “As we move into 2026, we must be even more committed and give our full support. The Guards Brigade remains ready and loyal to discharge its duties to the best of its ability,” he said. Reassuring residents of Abuja and its environs, Onasanya said the brigade would maintain a high level of operational readiness. “No stone will be left unturned. Any bandits or criminals who think they can use our area of responsibility as a safe haven will not find it easy,” he added. The Guards Brigade is responsible for the protection of the President and critical national assets within the FCT and surrounding areas. The warning underscores the brigade’s resolve to rid its area of criminal activities in 2026.

In a significant move to enhance safety in Nigeria’s rapidly expanding solar power sector, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), in partnership with Huawei Technologies Nigeria Limited, has conducted the country’s first authoritative Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) function test for photovoltaic (PV) inverters. The test, carried out under controlled conditions simulating real-life fault scenarios, successfully demonstrated that modern PV inverters can detect and immediately shut down dangerous electrical arc faults—potential triggers of fires in solar installations. During the demonstration, REA’s Chief Electrical Engineer, Peter Okopi, explained that the exercise addressed one of the most common yet often invisible risks in renewable energy systems. “An arc fault is extremely dangerous, particularly in DC systems, because it is continuous and does not self-extinguish. Temperatures can reach as high as 3,000°C, enough to ignite solar panels and cables,” he said. To replicate rooftop solar installations, engineers used a DC generator to feed electricity into a PV inverter at voltages typically produced by solar modules. An arc generator created controlled electrical arcs between two conductors, simulating faults caused by loose connections, poor installation, or ageing cables. Okopi highlighted that arc faults often go unnoticed until overheating or fire occurs. “Typically, the only sign is heat on cables or fire on the roof. The goal is for the inverter to switch off immediately before any damage occurs,” he said. The tested inverter, equipped with AFCI technology, continuously monitors electrical circuits and rapidly interrupts power flow upon detecting an arc fault. In the demonstration, the inverter shut down within 0.7 seconds of detecting a fault, effectively preventing further damage. Huawei engineers provided support and donated the test equipment. “That 0.7 seconds is sufficient to protect all connected devices and solar panels. Inverters without this feature risk not only damaging equipment but also causing fire hazards that could affect the entire roof or building,” Okopi noted. In addition to shutting down, the inverter generated detailed fault alerts, indicating the time of occurrence, possible causes, and recommended corrective actions. Common causes identified included loose cable ends, partial contacts, and ageing wires, with routine inspection and maintenance advised. “What is remarkable is that the inverter doesn’t just switch off; it provides actionable information on why it shut down and how to prevent recurrence,” Okopi added. The Managing Director of REA, Abba Aliyu, represented by Director of Projects M.D. Bala, said the successful test offers critical technical evidence to help Nigeria establish and enforce stricter entry standards for PV equipment, especially as solar adoption grows in homes, businesses, and rural electrification projects. Aliyu described the collaboration with Huawei as timely, noting that the absence of stringent regulations has led to inconsistent product quality in the market, with increasing reports of fire incidents. Executive Director of Technical Services, Abdullahi Umar, also represented by Bala, said the AFCI test marks a shift for Nigeria’s solar industry from rapid expansion to quality-focused growth. He called on regulators, government agencies, and private sector stakeholders to collaborate in developing comprehensive safety and quality standards covering product design, installation, operation, and maintenance. “This will ensure every PV power plant operates safely and reliably, supporting the sustainable development of Nigeria’s photovoltaic industry,” Umar stated.

The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) has ordered an immediate suspension of all enforcement activities related to the proposed ban on sachet alcohol products until further notice. The directive follows a formal communication from the House of Representatives Committee on Food and Drugs Administration and Control regarding plans by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to enforce the ban. In a statement released on Monday by the Special Adviser on Public Affairs, Terrence Kuanum, the OSGF disclosed that the correspondence—dated 13 November 2025 and signed by the committee’s Deputy Chairman, Uchenna Okonkwo—is currently under review. The statement noted that the matter is being considered in line with the OSGF’s statutory coordinating responsibility as Chairman of the Cabinet Secretariat. Consequently, the OSGF directed that all actions, decisions, or enforcement measures connected to the proposed sachet alcohol ban be put on hold pending the completion of consultations and the issuance of a final directive. It further clarified that any enforcement carried out by NAFDAC or other agencies without clearance and resolution from the OSGF is invalid and should be disregarded by the public until an official decision is announced. The office assured Nigerians that legislative resolutions, economic implications, public health concerns, and broader national interest considerations are being thoroughly examined to ensure a balanced, lawful, and well-coordinated outcome. It added that the public would be duly informed once a final position is reached. The development comes after NAFDAC announced plans to prohibit the production and sale of alcoholic beverages in sachets and bottles below 200 millilitres by December 2025. The agency’s Director-General, Mojisola Adeyeye, said the move was intended to curb the misuse of low-cost alcohol among youths and drivers. The SGF’s directive follows sustained pressure from the National Assembly, which has repeatedly urged NAFDAC to suspend enforcement in line with resolutions passed since 2024. A letter dated 1 December from the Permanent Secretary (General Services), Mohammed Danjuma, to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Pate, and the NAFDAC Director-General highlighted concerns raised by the House Committee on Food and Drugs Administration and Control. The letter requested comments to enable the SGF to make an informed decision, referencing the House committee’s earlier correspondence on the planned enforcement of the ban. Earlier, the Senate had approved a 31 December 2025 phase-out deadline following a motion by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong (Cross River South), who said the timeline was in line with global standards and aimed at reducing alcohol-related harm.  

The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) and the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System Plc (NIBSS) are set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at improving the efficiency of reimbursements for depositors in cases of bank failure. The NDIC disclosed this on Wednesday, with its Managing Director/Chief Executive, Mr Thompson Sunday, announcing the plan during a courtesy visit by the NIBSS Executive Management team, led by Managing Director/Chief Executive, Mr Premier Oiwoh, to the Corporation’s Abuja Head Office. The MoU comes a day after the NDIC began the liquidation of two mortgage banks, Aso Savings and Loans and Union Homes Savings and Loans, whose licences were revoked by the Central Bank of Nigeria. Deposit holders of the defunct banks will receive insured deposits of up to N2 million per individual, while claims above this threshold will be settled after the banks’ assets are liquidated. Mr Sunday praised NIBSS for its long-standing support in strengthening NDIC’s mandate of protecting depositors and promoting confidence in the banking system. He highlighted NIBSS’s role in digital verification processes, particularly through the Bank Verification Number platform, which facilitated smooth payments to depositors of the failed Heritage Bank Limited. “You have been a reliable partner, and NDIC remains committed to that collaboration. Without NIBSS’s support, achieving the milestone with Heritage Bank would have been difficult, even under the impromptu circumstances. This MoU will formalise and strengthen our partnership,” Sunday said. The MoU is expected to cover areas including real-time synchronisation of NDIC deposit records for swift account verification, expansion of payout channels to include Mobile Money Operators and a potential NDIC-branded mobile platform, and investment in Single Customer View and interoperability infrastructure to enable instant validation during bank resolutions. Sunday also commended NIBSS for advancing Nigeria’s payments system and strengthening fraud prevention. In response, NIBSS MD/CE Oiwoh expressed gratitude for the partnership and reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting NDIC in depositor protection. He stressed the importance of prompt reimbursements in maintaining public trust and financial inclusion and assured that NIBSS is collaborating with law enforcement to reinforce the safety and efficiency of Nigeria’s payment system. The MoU is expected to usher in a technology-driven, digitised, and responsive system for depositor payouts, bolstering confidence in the nation’s financial safety-net framework.

The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association has urged the Federal Government to rely on evidence-based approaches in addressing public health issues linked to the production and sale of sachet alcoholic beverages, cautioning that poorly structured regulations could push the trade into the informal sector and fuel the spread of illicit products. In a statement, NECA praised the Federal Government for suspending enforcement actions on the proposed ban of sachet alcohol and 200ml PET bottle products. The association’s Director-General, Adewale Oyerinde, acknowledged concerns about underage drinking and public health, but stressed that policy responses must strike a balance between health goals and economic realities. “We recognise the importance of tackling public health concerns, particularly those affecting children and young people. However, solutions must be evidence-based and carefully designed to avoid driving legitimate businesses into unregulated spaces or encouraging the proliferation of illicit products,” Oyerinde said. He noted that the decision to halt enforcement pending consultations and the release of a final policy directive respected resolutions of the National Assembly and helped restore regulatory certainty. Oyerinde also welcomed clarification from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) that any enforcement action by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control or other agencies without proper clearance is invalid and should be ignored by the public. Highlighting the potential economic impact of the proposed ban, Oyerinde explained that the sachet and PET segment represents a substantial share of the estimated N800 billion invested in the alcoholic beverage industry, supporting thousands of direct and indirect jobs across manufacturing, packaging, logistics, wholesale, and retail. He warned that sudden policy shifts could intensify job losses at a time when unemployment remains high and business costs are rising. “In an economy already under pressure from unemployment and escalating operating costs, abrupt measures that threaten jobs and legitimate investments would be counterproductive,” he said. He added that NECA looked forward to more extensive consultations to safeguard jobs, livelihoods, and lawful investments while ensuring that public health objectives are achieved in a sustainable manner. NECA’s position followed a directive from the OSGF suspending all enforcement actions related to the proposed sachet alcohol ban until further notice. The suspension came after a letter from the House of Representatives Committee on Food and Drug Administration and Control concerning the planned enforcement by NAFDAC. In a statement issued on Monday by the Special Adviser on Public Affairs to the OSGF, Terrence Kuanum, the office said the correspondence dated November 13, 2025, and signed by the committee’s deputy chairman, Uchenna Okonkwo, was still under review. According to the OSGF, the issue is being considered in line with its statutory role as coordinator of government policy. It directed that all actions, decisions, or enforcement measures connected to the proposed ban be suspended until consultations are concluded and a final directive is issued. The office further clarified that any enforcement carried out by NAFDAC or other agencies without its approval has no effect and should be disregarded. The OSGF assured Nigerians that legislative resolutions, economic implications, public health concerns, and the broader national interest are being carefully examined, and that the public will be informed once a final decision is made.  

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) are at odds over the police’s recent notice indicating plans to resume enforcement of the suspended tinted glass permit policy from January 2, 2026. The NBA has urged President Bola Tinubu to call the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, to order, describing the planned action as a challenge to the authority of the courts. In contrast, the police stated that no court has restrained them from enforcing the tinted glass permit, and that enforcement will continue unless a court directs otherwise. A Federal High Court in Warri had on October 7 issued an interim injunction stopping the IGP and the NPF from implementing the policy, following a motion by John Aikpokpo-Martins, who argued the policy was unlawful and burdensome. Another related case is pending before a Federal High Court in Abuja. In a statement, NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, said the IGP has a constitutional obligation to respect the judicial process. NBA-SPIDEL had filed Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/1821/2025 in September 2025, challenging the legality of the tinted glass permit policy. The NBA argued that the policy is unconstitutional, illegal, and extortionate, claiming it undermines citizens’ rights, adds unnecessary financial burdens, and encourages corruption. The association highlighted that modern vehicles imported into Nigeria often come with factory-fitted tinted glass, yet the policy imposes additional levies payable into a private bank account rather than the Treasury Single Account. The NBA also noted that the policy nullifies existing permits without legal basis. The NBA cited a Warri court order from October 3, which directed parties to maintain the status quo in a related suit, effectively restraining the police from enforcing the policy. The association questioned why the police announced on Monday that enforcement would resume in January 2026. The police, through Force PRO Benjamin Hundeyin, said the policy had never been restrained by any court. He added that the temporary suspension was meant to allow citizens more time to regularise their tinted glass registrations, but criminal elements have exploited the delay. Hundeyin cited a case in Edo State where a tinted Lexus SUV refused to stop for police, resulting in the death of a police inspector. He insisted that enforcement will continue until a court rules otherwise and that the NPF’s legal department will handle any potential lawsuit from the NBA regarding contempt of court. The disagreement highlights ongoing tension between the NBA’s legal challenges and the NPF’s security concerns over tinted glass vehicles.