The Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) has introduced a USSD code designed to simplify tax compliance and Tax ID registration for residents throughout the state. This initiative is a proactive measure in preparation for the nationwide implementation of new Nigerian Tax Acts, scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026.
Courage Eboigbe, Head of Corporate Communications at EIRS, elaborated on Thursday that this development aims to foster inclusivity and ensure widespread compliance with tax filing requirements by 2026. He further stated that the initiative is expected to broaden participation in the formal economy and enhance the ease of doing business within the state.
The USSD code is a collaborative effort between the Edo State Internal Revenue Service and the Joint Tax Board (JTB).
By dialling *668# on their mobile devices, residents of Edo State can now access instant Tax ID registration for a service cost of N20. The service also offers features for verification and certificate generation.
Initial checks indicate that the USSD code is accessible nationwide to all Nigerians, irrespective of their state of residence.
This is not the first USSD code initiative aimed at simplifying tax compliance. In the previous year, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) launched its own USSD code to provide taxpayers with access to relevant information.
The FIRS USSD code, *829#, positions Nigeria as one of six African countries with a dedicated USSD service for tax collection and related matters.
For a service cost of N100, the FIRS code enables taxpayers to retrieve their Tax ID, verify Tax Clearance Certificates (TCC), obtain information on various tax types and rates, receive answers to tax-related inquiries, and locate the nearest FIRS office.
New Tax ID Registration Centres Unveiled
In addition to the USSD service, the Edo Internal Revenue Service has also established 14 new centres for Tax ID registration across the state. This move is part of a broader strategy to decentralise the registration process and bring the agency's services closer to the citizens.
The newly opened centres are located within all zonal tax offices throughout the state, including Oredo, Egor, Ikpoba-Okha, Uhunmwonde, Ovia North-East, and Orhionmwon. Additional locations include Ovia South-West, Esan West, Esan North-East, Akoko-Edo, Etsako East, Etsako West, and Owan East.
Eboigbe emphasized that these initiatives are strategic efforts to facilitate tax compliance among taxpayers in anticipation of the new tax laws in 2026.
“These initiatives ensure that citizens and potential taxpayers, especially those in rural and diaspora communities, can obtain their Tax ID conveniently,” he stated.
Beyond the USSD code and physical registration centres, Nigerians can also confirm existing Tax Identification Numbers (TINs) or register for a new one by visiting the JTB portal at tin.jtb.gov.ng. For further inquiries, individuals can contact 08130970146 or email info@eirs.gov.ng.