Nigerians continue to report frustrations over delays and inconsistencies in the issuance of Tax Identification Numbers (TIN), even as the Joint Tax Board (JTB) rolls out new services, including a diaspora TIN platform and stricter oversight for virtual assets.

Several taxpayers have highlighted disparities in the registration process. One user on X (formerly Twitter) lamented: “It’s shocking how some people pay others to register their TIN and get their certificates within 2–3 hours, while others have been waiting for weeks. My Request ID is 7219967119, please treat.”

Others flagged unofficial charges despite the process being free. “They say registration is free, but they are collecting more than N5,000, and you must pay to download your certificate within 24 hours,” complained another user.

The issue is particularly acute for Nigerians living abroad, many of whom cannot register online. “When the time comes to collect the N50,000 penalty, it will be unfair to citizens abroad,” warned a diaspora taxpayer, while others reported a lack of feedback despite repeated emails.

In response, the JTB has launched a diaspora TIN service powered by Online Integrated Solutions (OIS), now available in 13 countries. Nigerians abroad can book registration sessions via appointment.oisservices.com.

The board said the initiative is intended to make TIN registration more accessible for citizens living outside Nigeria.

Meanwhile, the JTB has tightened tax compliance for virtual assets. Under Section 25 of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act (NTAA) 2025, all Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) – including cryptocurrency exchanges, digital wallet operators, brokers, and traders – must submit detailed monthly reports of taxable activities. These disclosures include transaction dates, types and values of virtual assets, and the personal information of all customers involved.

JTB officials described the rules as a “game-changing step” in Nigeria’s tax administration, enhancing transparency and ensuring proper assessment of income derived from virtual assets. Analysts say the measure aligns Nigeria with global anti-money laundering standards, broadens the tax net, and reduces revenue leakages amid rising adoption of digital assets.

While these initiatives represent progress in modernizing Nigeria’s tax system, taxpayers insist that timely service delivery remains critical. Without improved responsiveness and accountability, public trust in the system may continue to erode.

Experts on social media have also offered step-by-step guidance for TIN registration. One user, Profitableman, shared practical tips for Nigerians navigating the online and offline processes: Check if you already have a TIN on the JTB verification portal; if so, screenshot it and save it; Register online via the JTB website by filling in your personal details exactly as they appear on your BVN/NIN; Ensure you have a valid email and phone number; successful registration will email your TIN; If the portal is down, visit any Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) office with a valid ID, a recent utility bill, and a passport photograph.

The process is free; do not pay unofficial agents. Profitableman emphasized that businesses or companies must check if their TIN is printed on their CAC certificate, and if not, apply online or at an FIRS office. He also stressed that obtaining the number is step one, while securing the certificate is step two.

The guidance aims to reduce reliance on unofficial intermediaries and ensure Nigerians can access their TINs efficiently while avoiding unnecessary costs. (Nigerian Tribune)

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