By GRACE ALEGBA

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), has approved eTranzact International Plc as a certified provider for its nationwide e-invoicing rollout, expanding a collaboration that begun with VAT automation under Tax Administration 2.0.

A statement on Thursday by Adeyemi Opene, Head Corporate Communications, FIRS, said that the approval strengthens eTranzact’s position as a trusted partner in government-led digitisation of tax and business processes.

“The FIRS e-invoicing platform, the Merchant Buyer Solution (MBS), introduces structured digital invoices across business to business, business-to-consumer and business-to-government transactions.

“By design, it simplifies tax processes, enhances compliance and improves transparency in Africa’s largest economy,’’ Opene stated.

Mike Adoga, Acting Director of Tax Automation at FIRS, said that the certified providers met rigorous requirements, including nationwide service capacity, proven security, neutrality and scalability.

He added that the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), provided technical input.

Tayo Koleoso, Chief of Staff to the Executive Chairman of FIRS, explained that the providers were carefully selected based on their ability to deliver at scale.

“NITDA’s role was critical in tightening data protection and cybersecurity on the platform, giving taxpayers confidence that their information is safe and the process Is transparent,” he said.

On his part, Niyi Toluwalope, Managing Director/CEO of eTranzact International Pic, described e-invoicing as a platform for innovation in business-government interaction.

“This recognition by the FIRS affirms our vision to be the preferred integrated financial technology platform for merchants and consumers.

“For us, e-invoicing is more than compliance. It is an opportunity to transform the way businesses interact with government, creating transparency, efficiency and value for every stakeholder,” he said.

According to him, “This certification builds on eTranzact’s track record of supporting national tax automation. In 2017, under Tax Administration 2.0, the company partnered with FIRS and leading banks to deploy an API system for secure VAT and WHT reporting through TaxPro Max.

“That infrastructure established a new standard for digital transparency in tax reporting and laid the foundation for Tax Administration 3.0.

“In addition to tax solutions, eTranzact delivers technology that addresses other government and institutional needs.

“In 2024, it deployed a verification system for the Military Pensions Board, enabling pensioners within Nigeria and abroad to authenticate their identities seamlessly.

“Since 2003, the company has provided secure and scalable payment infrastructure across industries, licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria for Switching and Processing as well as Mobile Money Operations.

“Through the e-invoicing rollout, eTranzact is helping FIRS achieve its mandate of digitising invoicing nationwide that meets international standards yet remains locally relevant.’’ (NAN)