Individuals must file tax returns by March 31; employers, January 31-Taiwo Oyedele

Here’s the latest major news about the tax filing deadlines in Nigeria as explained by Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms:

Deadline for Employers

• The federal government, through Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, reminded employers that they are legally required to file annual tax returns for their employees by January 31, 2026. Employers’ returns include details on staff pay and tax deductions. 

Deadline for Individuals

• Individual taxpayers  including salaried workers and those who are self-employed must file their own self-assessment tax returns by March 31, 2026. This applies even if your employer already deducted Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) taxes from your salary; you still must file your personal return. 

Why This Matters

• Oyedele highlighted that many Nigerians are not yet complying with the law in some states fewer than 5 % of individuals file their returns. 

• The government is encouraging better compliance to ensure fairness and proper revenue collection under the current tax reforms. 

Enforcement & Simplification

• Tax authorities and state revenue services are reportedly working to make the filing process easier, and there are requirements for businesses to disclose any tax incentives they enjoy when filing.