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Tag: Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS)

  • LIRS boss attributes Lagos tax growth to Tinubu’s foresight as 159th JRB meeting ends

    LIRS boss attributes Lagos tax growth to Tinubu’s foresight as 159th JRB meeting ends

    The Executive Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), Dr Ayodele Subair, has said the remarkable growth of tax administration and internally generated revenue in Lagos State can be traced to the bold reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu during his tenure as governor of the state.

    Subair stated this at the Gala night organised to close the 159th meeting of the Joint Revenue Board (JRB) held in Lagos, where tax administrators and revenue stakeholders from across the country gathered for four days to deliberate on ways to strengthen tax systems, improve compliance, and deepen revenue generation nationwide.

    According to him, Tinubu’s decision years ago to grant operational autonomy to the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service laid the foundation for the success story that has since become a model for several states in Nigeria.

    He said, “This story of taxation in Lagos was started seriously by our present President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who deemed it fit to give autonomy to the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service.

    “From then on, things changed. Things are still evolving because he handed the baton to very serious governors thereafter. His model is copied in most of the states in Nigeria. I think the President deserves applause. We are seeing the benefits of that vision that this great Nigerian had, and we all pledge to continue.”

    Subair noted that Lagos had sustained the momentum across successive administrations, with visible investments in transportation, urban renewal, and other public infrastructure, funded largely by taxes paid by residents.

    The LIRS chief also commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for delivering robust infrastructure development. He noted that in addition to significant investments in education, health, housing, and urban renewal projects, the multimodal transportation system, which includes rail, road, and water transport, is a key part of the current administration’s legacy.

    He said, “Governor Sanwo-Olu is doing a great job. This administration is building the multimodal transport system, as witnessed by the JTB members. Apart from the rail, you also have road transport through the BRT, and then we have the ferry service.

    “We launched all sorts of projects, and we are soon going to have electric ferries and boats that will move people all over. Also, the Red Line is supposed to be fully in place within one year.

    “All this would never have been possible without the good people of Lagos paying their taxes. When you pay your taxes, there is a high level of correlation between the payment of taxes and development.

    “In other countries, people pay a lot of taxes, some up to 50 to 60 per cent of their earnings, and it is a way of life for them. In Nigeria, they are trying, but the benefits of paying taxes can only come when everybody plays their own part.”

    The LIRS chairman added that voluntary compliance in Lagos had continued to rise because taxpayers could clearly see how their contributions were being utilised.

    He said, “In Lagos especially, tax compliance is moving at a much higher pace than that of the rest of the country. That is because people can see where their money is going. You can see the good projects that are coming. You can see the good works of the government of Lagos.”

    The 159th meeting of the Joint Revenue Board, formerly known as the Joint Tax Board, ran from April 20 to April 23 in Lagos.

    The board comprises the Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, chairmen of the 36 state internal revenue services, and the Federal Capital Territory and representatives of strategic government agencies, including the Federal Ministry of Finance, National Identity Management Commission, Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, and the Federal Road Safety Corps.

    The meeting featured various activities, including a session of the Finance and General Purpose Committee, followed by meetings of the Education Committee on the second day. Delegates also took part in an excursion to inspect major infrastructure projects carried out by the Lagos State Government. They rode the Lagos Blue Line Rail from Marina to Mile 2 and visited the iconic Eko Atlantic City.

  • JRB 159th Meeting: Sanwo-Olu commends LIRS, seeks autonomy for state tax agencies

    JRB 159th Meeting: Sanwo-Olu commends LIRS, seeks autonomy for state tax agencies

    … says IGR driving Lagos development

    Lagos State Governor,  Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday commended the performance of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), describing it as a critical driver of the state’s economic growth, while calling for greater autonomy for tax agencies across the country.

    Sanwo-Olu spoke at the State House, Marina, while hosting members of the Joint Revenue Board (JRB) for its 159th meeting, which began on Monday, April 20, 2026.

    The Joint Revenue Board (JRB) formerly known as the Joint Tax Board (JTB), is made up of the Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), chairmen of the 36 State Internal Revenue Services and the Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as well as representatives of key agencies including the Federal Ministry of Finance, National Identity Management Commission, Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service and the Federal Road Safety Corps.

    The governor said Lagos had continued to record significant growth in internally generated revenue due to deliberate reforms implemented by LIRS, noting that IGR now accounts for over 60 per cent of the state’s annual budget.

    Sanwo-Olu disclosed that Lagos generated N1.3tn as internally generated revenue in 2024, representing a 45 per cent increase over the previous year, driven by reforms spearheaded by the LIRS.

    He attributed the growth to sustained investment in digital tax systems, expansion of the tax base, and improved engagement with taxpayers.

    “We can say that our internally generated revenues now account for well over 60 per cent of our budget. It has not happened by sheer luck. It is the result of years of investment in digital tax systems, a push to expand our tax net, and building trust with our taxpayers,” the governor said.

    The governor, however, stressed that for other states to replicate Lagos’ success, tax agencies must be allowed to operate independently without undue political interference.

    He urged state governors to grant full tenure and operational freedom to revenue authorities, warning that frequent leadership disruptions could undermine efficiency and public confidence.

    Sanwo-Olu said, “Governors need to give revenue agencies clear space to work. They need to give them that independence. They need to give them full tenure to do their work. It should not be a situation where a governor comes and wants to disrupt the tenure of the chairman. It is only when they do all of this that the confidence of taxpayers and workers, and subordinates in the system, will be enhanced. I will be pushing my brother governors again for them to understand and appreciate that it is only when they give you what you need to work that they can get the benefits of the expertise that you all have.”

    The governor also said taxes paid by residents and businesses were being translated into visible infrastructure and social projects across the state, stressing that Lagos had become a model for linking revenue generation with development.

    He said, “For us, it is really about our citizens. It is about the people who have given us the trust to believe in us and to pay these taxes. My deputy and I are consistently committed to ensuring that we leave this place a lot better than we found it.”

    Highlighting projects funded through public revenue, the governor cited the Blue and Red Rail Lines, road expansion projects, hospitals and new universities. He said Lagos was building a multi-modal transportation system that would combine rail, water transport and buses to improve movement across the state.

    Earlier, Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), Ayodele Subair, said the Joint Revenue Board had become central to strengthening Nigeria’s tax system through coordination and reform implementation.

    He added that the new tax laws had made coordination even more urgent.

    “This meeting comes at a pivotal time following the enactment and implementation of the new tax laws. The JRB is positioning itself to support effective implementation by strengthening coordination across all tiers of government,” he said.

    Subair noted that Lagos’ hosting of the meeting again after five years reflected its economic importance.

    “After a five-year interval, Lagos State is once again honoured to host this important gathering. This reflects the state’s leadership as Nigeria’s economic nerve centre,” he said.

    Speaking on behalf of the Chairman of the Joint Revenue Board, Zacch Adedeji, the Executive Secretary of JRB, Olusegun Adesokan, commended Lagos for its revenue performance and governance reforms.

    He said, “It is no surprise that Lagos State Internal Revenue Service remains the leading subnational revenue authority in Nigeria.”

    Adesokan added that Lagos’ revenue growth reflected long-term reforms.

    “Prior to this, the state’s annual internal revenue was less than N94bn. But today, Lagos generates over N1.7tn annually,” he said.

    He noted that the increase represented a 39 per cent rise year-on-year.

    “These achievements clearly demonstrate how strong revenue performance, when effectively managed, translates into tangible development outcomes for citizens,” he said.

    Adesokan further described Lagos as a benchmark for tax administration in Nigeria.

    “Your sustained support for tax administration underscores the high priority you accord effective revenue administration and its critical contribution to sustainable development,” he said.

    The Executive Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service, Okon Okon, thanked Governor Sanwoolu for hosting the meeting, highlighting the positive experiences of the JRB members in Lagos, especially the Blurail train ride from Marina to Mile 2 and a visit to the Eko Atlantic City.

  • LIRS extends deadline for the Filing of Individual Annual Income Tax

    LIRS extends deadline for the Filing of Individual Annual Income Tax

    The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has extended the deadline for filing individual annual tax returns by two weeks, from April 1 to April 14, 2026.

    In a statement issued on Monday, the Executive Chairman of LIRS, Dr. Ayodele Subair, explained that the statutory deadline for filing of individual annual tax returns is March 31 every year. He noted that the extension is intended to provide individuals with additional time to complete and submit accurate tax returns.

    Dr. Subair stated that individuals must give priority to the timely filing of their annual income tax returns, noting that compliance should be embedded as a routine personal practice.

    He also reiterated that electronic filing through the LIRS eTax platform remains the only approved method for submitting annual returns, as manual filings have been completely phased out. Individuals are therefore required to file their returns exclusively through the LIRS eTax portal: https://etax.lirs.net.

    Describing the platform as secure, user-friendly, and accessible 24/7, Dr. Subair advised individuals to ensure that their TaxID (Tax Identification Number) is correctly captured in their submissions.

  • LIRS Reiterates January 31st Deadline for Employers’ Annual Tax Returns Filing

    LIRS Reiterates January 31st Deadline for Employers’ Annual Tax Returns Filing

    The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has reiterated the statutory deadline of 31st January 2026 for all employers of labour in Lagos State to fulfil their statutory obligation to file their annual tax returns for the 2025 financial year.

    In a statement issued on Thursday, the Executive Chairman of LIRS, Dr Ayodele Subair, reminded employers that the obligation to file annual returns is in accordance with the provisions of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act 2025 (NTAA).

    Dr Subair explained that employers are required to file detailed returns on emoluments and compensation paid to their employees, as well as payments made to their service providers, vendors and consultants, and to ensure that all applicable taxes due for the year 2025 are fully remitted. He emphasised that filing of annual returns is a mandatory legal obligation, and warned that failure to comply will result in statutory sanctions, including administrative penalties, as prescribed under the new tax law.

    According to Section 14 of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act 2025 (NTAA), employers are required to file detailed annual returns of all emoluments paid to employees, including taxes deducted and remitted to relevant tax authorities. Such returns must be filed and submitted not later than January 31 each year.

    Dr Subair stated, “Employers must prioritise the timely filing of their annual income tax returns. Compliance should be part of our everyday business practice. Early and accurate filing not only ensures adherence to the law as required by the Nigerian Constitution, but also supports effective revenue tracking, which is important to Lagos State’s fiscal planning and sustainability.”

    He further noted that in Lagos State, electronic filing via the LIRS eTax platform remains the only approved and acceptable mode of filing, as manual submissions have been completely phased out. This measure, he said, is aimed at simplifying and standardising tax administration processes in the State.

    Employers are therefore required to submit their annual tax returns exclusively through the LIRS eTax portal: https://etax.lirs.net.

    Dr Subair described the LIRS eTax platform as secure, user-friendly, accessible 24/7, and designed to provide employers with a convenient and efficient means of fulfilling their tax obligations. He advised that employers should ensure that the TaxID (Tax Identification Number) of all employees is correctly captured in their filings, noting that employees without a TaxID must generate one promptly to avoid disruptions during the filing process.

    For further information or assistance, employers may visit any of the LIRS offices or use any of the following support channels:

                  •            Website: www.lirs.gov.ng

                  •            Facebook and LinkedIn: Lagos State Internal Revenue Service

                  •            Instagram and YouTube: @lirsgovng

                  •            X (formerly Twitter): @lirs_govng

                  •            Email: etaxinfo@lirs.net

                  •            Customer Care Hotline: 0700-CALL-LIRS (0700-2255-5477).

  • Lagos, FirstBank, Guinness, The Address Homes, Swedish Government, Gobet247, Utilita, others Lead 9th AFRIMA Sponsorship Line-Up

    Lagos, FirstBank, Guinness, The Address Homes, Swedish Government, Gobet247, Utilita, others Lead 9th AFRIMA Sponsorship Line-Up

    The Lagos State Government, First Bank of Nigeria, Guinness Nigeria, The Address Homes, the Government of Sweden, Gobet247 and several other major organisations have thrown their weight as sponsors behind the 9th edition of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), scheduled to hold from January 7 to 11, 2026, in Lagos.

    AFRIMA, in partnership with the African Union Commission (AUC), unveiled its strong list of sponsors and partners, showing growing confidence in African music as a major cultural and economic force.

    The 9th edition, themed “Unstoppable Africa,” has attracted support from key sectors including finance, real estate, beverages, digital platforms, media, hospitality and international cultural institutions.

    Following the acceptance of Lagos State Government of the offer from the African Union, Lagos will once again serve as the Official Host City, reinforcing the state’s position as Africa’s leading creative and entertainment hub. With the strong backing of the awards from the Federal Government of Nigeria, the 9th AFRIMA promises to be hugely successful. The African Union Commission remains AFRIMA’s legacy Institutional Partner, supporting its mission to promote African music and culture across the continent and beyond.

    At the top level of sponsorship, fast-growing digital payments and lifestyle platform Utilita and leading gaming and entertainment brand Gobet247 are headlining the event as National Gold Sponsors.

    At the Silver level, First Bank of Nigeria, Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) and The Address Homes have been confirmed as National Silver Partners. Guinness Nigeria joins as the Official Beer Sponsor, bringing added energy to this year’s festivities. AFRIMA also welcomes international cultural support from the British High Commission in Nigeria and the Embassy of Sweden, both serving as Cultural Exchange Partners.

    In travel and hospitality, Wakanow, Pan Atlantic Travels and Dorf Travels & Tours Ltd have been named the Official Travel Partners. Vaniti Lagos and Knowhere Restaurant will host nominees and special guests as Hospitality Partners. Popular youth culture platform Mainland Block Party Lagos is also supporting the celebration, adding street culture and community energy to the awards week at the AFRIMA Music Village holding at Ikeja City Mall on Friday, January 9,2026.

    AFRIMA has also confirmed a strong coalition of leading media organisations across radio, television, digital platforms, print, and Out-of-Home (OOH) channels as its Official Media Partners for the 9th Edition. These include DSTV/Multichoice, HIPTV, Afro Music Pop, Base FM, Beat FM, Classic FM, Hot FM, Kennis FM, Lagos Talks, Inspiration FM, Traffic Radio, Radio Lagos, Eko FM, and Lasgidi FM.

    Others on the partnership roster are The Culture Newspapers (TCN),Legit.ng, Max FM, Nigeria Info, Nigezie, Television Continental (TVC), and Yanga FM, along with top OOH companies led by MotoMedia, Yartview Ltd, Optimus Exposure, Plural Media, Folham Nigeria Limited and Nimbus Media.

    Speaking on FirstBank’s support, Olayinka Ijabiyi, Acting Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank, said the partnership aligns with the bank’s long-standing commitment to Africa’s creative industry.

    “At FirstBank, we are dedicated to promoting Africa’s vibrant creative industry, and our partnership with AFRIMA reflects this commitment. Through our First@Arts initiative, we have consistently supported projects across the creative value chain, nurturing talent and enabling production. In doing this, we preserve Africa’s rich cultural heritage while promoting unity, education and entertainment.”

    From the international community, H.E. Anna Westerholm, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Sweden to Nigeria, said, “Sweden is proud to join AFRIMA in celebrating the richness and global impact of African music. In 2026, we will mark 65 years of diplomatic relations with Nigeria, highlighting our strong ties. As the world’s third-largest music exporter, we believe in the power of collaboration and idea exchange. This partnership enhances our cultural and business connections, and we look forward to a meaningful week supporting the creative industries.”

    Also speaking, Yinka Bakare, Marketing and Innovations Director at Guinness Nigeria Plc, said the brand’s involvement reflects its deep roots in African culture.

    “Guinness has been woven into Africa’s most iconic cultural moments for decades, and our sponsorship of AFRIMA’s 9th edition reinforces that heritage. AFRIMA celebrates the extraordinary artistry that defines Africa, and we are proud to support a platform that showcases the continent’s greatness to the world.”

    Founder and Chairman of The Address Homes, Dr. Bisi Onasanya, described AFRIMA as an important platform for African creativity, collaboration and cultural identity expressions.

    “AFRIMA represents the spirit of African excellence and innovation. At The Address Homes, we believe that culture, creativity and enterprise must work together to drive sustainable growth. Supporting AFRIMA is our way of building and investing in Africa’s talents, strengthening cultural pride and opening new opportunities for creative young people and business partnerships across the continent.”

    Speaking during the sponsorship announcement in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, Ms. Edwidge Goli, Director of Partnerships at AFRIMA, described the sponsorship line-up as a strong vote of confidence in African music.

    “This is more than sponsorship. It is a historic show of belief in the power of African music, the brilliance of our talents and the future of our creative industries,” she said.

    She thanked the Lagos State Government for hosting the event again and praised the commitment of the Gold and Silver sponsors, as well as international partners and media organisations.

    The 9th AFRIMA will commence with the Nominees and Guests Welcome Soirees scheduled on January 7. This will be followed by the Africa Music Business Summit (AMBS) on January 8 at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos, Nigeria.

    AFRIMA Music Village Concert and Diamond Showcase will take place on January 9 at the Ikeja City Mall, leading up to the grand Awards Ceremony on January 11 at the Eko Convention Centre at Eko Hotel, Lagos, Nigeria. Red carpet starts at 3:30 pm (WAT).

    The awards ceremony, along with major live performances, will be broadcast to audiences in over 84 countries worldwide.

  • Subair named board chair of the year, as LIRS emerges top revenue agency

    Subair named board chair of the year, as LIRS emerges top revenue agency

    The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has once again demonstrated excellence and sector leadership as it received major recognitions at the 2025 Peak Performer Awards, held at the Lagos Oriental Hotel on Tuesday, 18 November 2025,

    Solidifying its position as a leading institution in public sector excellence and innovation, in a proud moment for the agency, while the Executive Chairman, Mr. Ayodele Subair, was featured on the cover of the 2025 edition of Peak Performer Magazine, he also received the prestigious “Board Chair of the Year” Award, recognising his visionary leadership, strategic direction, and outstanding results in advancing revenue administration in Lagos State.

    The honour underscores Mr. Subair’s consistent drive for performance excellence, digital transformation, and operational efficiency, which have strengthened LIRS’ position as a national benchmark in revenue innovation and development.

    L-R: Dr Rasheed Olu-Ajayi, Deputy Director, Information Technology Directorate, Lagos Internal Revenue Service, LIRS, Mrs. Monsurat Amasa-Oyelude, Deputy Director, Corporate Communications, LIRS, Mrs. Enonuya Angela, Assistant Director, Personal Income Tax, LIRS, Foluso Mustapha , Director, Tax Audit, LIRS, Maruf Tijani, Director, Finance & Accounts, LIRS, Mr. Ahmed Oluwa, Assistant Director, Tax Audit, LIRS, Ayodele Subair, Executive Chairman, LIRS, Segun Tijani, Assistant Director, HNWI, LIRS (back), Dr. Abiola Salami, Convener of The Peak PerformerTM and other management staff of the LIRS as Subair was honoured with the prestigious “Board Chair of the Year” award at the 2025 Peak Performer Awards, held at the Lagos Oriental Hotel

    Under Mr. Subair’s leadership, LIRS has executed strategic reforms, deployed technology-driven processes, and delivered improved service efficiency, helping to establish Lagos State as a model for modern tax administration in Nigeria.

    In addition to the Executive Chairman’s recognition, at the event, LIRS itself was awarded the “Peak Performing Revenue Agency” Award, a testament to the agency’s dedication to transparent governance, continuous improvement, and modern revenue practices that support Lagos State’s economic growth.

    At the event, other legacy builders’ awardees who were duly recognised included Chief Chris O. Okunowo -Legal Profession, Dr. Godwin Ehigiamusoe -Financial Services Sector, Austin Avuru  -Oil & Gas, Dr. John Obaro -Payment Services, Dr. Victoria A. Samson -Oil & Gas, Dr. Abiodun Adedipe -Professional Services, Prof. Chris Uwaje -Information Technology, Dotun Sulaiman and Ufot Udeme – Professional Services.

    Speaking at the event, Mr. Subair expressed appreciation for the recognition, stating: “This award is a reflection of the hard work, commitment, and professionalism of the entire LIRS team. Our mission has always been to drive innovation, enhance efficiency, and contribute significantly to Lagos State’s development. We remain committed to raising standards, improving service delivery, and building a world-class revenue administration system.”

    The 2025 Peak Performer Awards brought together leaders from business, governance, and development sectors to celebrate accomplishments that continue to reshape institutions and inspire national transformation.

    LIRS’ dual recognition further reinforces its role as a performance-driven agency committed to impactful leadership, modernization, and exceptional public service.

  • LIRS Urges Taxpayers to Meet March 31 Deadline for Annual Tax Return Submission

    LIRS Urges Taxpayers to Meet March 31 Deadline for Annual Tax Return Submission

    The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) reminds all individual taxpayers, including self-employed individuals, those in the informal sector, and employees under the Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) scheme, to submit their Annual Tax Returns on or before March 31, 2025. This directive is in accordance with the Personal Income Tax Act (PITA) 2004 as amended.

    Mr. Ayodele Subair, Executive Chairman of LIRS, emphasized that under Section 41 of the Act, all taxable persons must submit a comprehensive return detailing their total income from all sources for the previous fiscal year (January 1st to December 31st 2024, in this case) to the relevant state tax authority within 90 days of the commencement of the new assessment year.

    Mr. Subair reiterated the importance of adhering to the deadline, urging taxpayers to fulfill their statutory obligations promptly to avoid penalties and other legal consequences. He also highlighted that tax returns must be submitted exclusively through the LIRS eTax portal, accessible at https://etax.lirs.net. The portal is designed to offer taxpayers convenience, security, and ease of compliance.

    “In line with our commitment to simplifying the tax filing process, dedicated tax officers are available at our various tax offices to assist individuals with online registration and tax return submissions via the eTax portal,” stated Mr. Subair.

  • Lagos Lawmakers Commend LIRS on Historic N1 Trillion Revenue Milestone

    Lagos Lawmakers Commend LIRS on Historic N1 Trillion Revenue Milestone

    Legislators in Lagos State have commended the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) for achieving an unprecedented milestone in revenue generation, surpassing ₦1 trillion. This landmark accomplishment positions LIRS as the first sub-national revenue agency in Nigeria to attain such a feat, reflecting its professionalism, efficiency, and commitment to transparent tax administration.

    Former Chairman of the House Committee on Economic Planning and Budgeting, Hon. Lukman Sa’ad Olumoh, alongside Hon. Femi Saheed, former Chairman of the House Committee on Finance, lauded LIRS and its Executive Chairman, Mr. Ayodele Subair, for their exemplary leadership and dedication to enhancing the state’s revenue performance.

    In a recent interview, Hon. Lukman Sa’ad Olumoh described the achievement as a testament to the dedication and expertise of the LIRS team. He emphasized that Lagos State has set a benchmark in revenue collection, serving as a model for other states to emulate. Representing the Ajeromi-Ifelodun Constituency 01 in the Lagos State House of Assembly, he praised Mr. Subair for fostering a culture of efficiency and innovation within the agency, which has significantly contributed to its success.

    Speaking during the 2024 budget signing ceremony, Hon. Lukman Sa’ad Olumoh conveyed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu that Lagos State has reached an exceptional level in revenue generation. He acknowledged LIRS’s historic achievement of surpassing the N1 trillion mark and expressed confidence in the agency’s ability to exceed future targets. He further urged the state government to sustain its support for LIRS, emphasizing that continued improvements in revenue collection could reduce reliance on external borrowing.

    “You cannot expect remarkable results without placing the right people in key positions. LIRS is managed by a team of highly skilled professionals. While it operates as a government agency, its structure and operations reflect global best practices. The agency has evolved into a world-class institution, moving from Good Shepherd’s House to the state-of-the-art Revenue House. A visit to its facilities will reveal an environment that fosters excellence. Under the leadership of Mr. Ayodele Subair, a visionary and dedicated professional, LIRS has achieved remarkable success. The agency’s work culture and improved operational environment have been instrumental in reaching this milestone,” Hon. Lukman Sa’ad Olumoh stated.

    Looking ahead, Hon. Lukman Sa’ad Olumoh noted that based on LIRS’s consistent performance, the revenue target for 2025 has been set at N1.4 trillion. He assured that as Lagos’s economy continues to expand and more employment opportunities are created, this growth in revenue collection would not impose additional burdens on residents but rather result from enhanced tax compliance and structured reforms.

    “LIRS has demonstrated steady growth over the past five years. We have set a revenue target of N1.4 trillion for 2025, and I am confident that the agency can surpass this goal. Lagos State has the capacity to generate over N4 trillion in internal revenue without negatively impacting its residents,” he added.

    He also highlighted the role of upcoming tax reforms at the federal level, noting that the Joint Tax Board (JTB) would ensure a well-structured tax administration system. He reassured the public that no adverse fiscal policies would be introduced, emphasizing that the focus remains on improving compliance and fostering a positive tax culture.

    In a formal congratulatory letter addressed to Mr. Subair, Hon. Femi Saheed, who represents Kosofe II Constituency, commended the LIRS team for their dedication, resilience, and strategic approach to revenue collection. He reiterated the Lagos State House of Assembly’s commitment to providing the necessary legislative support to enable the agency to achieve even greater success.

    “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you and your forward-thinking management team for surpassing the N1 trillion revenue mark in 2024. My colleagues and I commend your resilience, transparency, and commitment to excellence. Your achievements bring immense pride to Lagos State, and I am confident that 2025 will be even more rewarding. As a key revenue agency, we remain dedicated to supporting your efforts in achieving greater milestones,” the letter stated.

    With this historic achievement, LIRS continues to reinforce its position as a leader in revenue generation, setting new standards for tax administration in Nigeria.

  • TCC is Required, WAEC Exams Still Free in Lagos, LIRS Clarifies

    TCC is Required, WAEC Exams Still Free in Lagos, LIRS Clarifies

    The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has reiterated that the provision of FREE West African Examinations Council, WAEC registration for SS3 students in state-funded secondary schools is a vital policy of the Lagos State Government and that free education policy from kindergarten to SS3 is still in operation. This initiative, part of the THEMES PLUS agenda, is included in the government’s broader efforts to provide essential services such as affordable housing, efficient transportation, free healthcare, youth and small business empowerment programs, enhanced security, and better road infrastructure, among others.

    Mr. Ayo Subair, Executive Chairman of LIRS, stated, “It is standard procedure to require a Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC) to access government services. To obtain a TCC, individuals must file their annual tax returns for the applicable assessment year and ensure their tax payments are currently based on their declared income.” He highlighted that this requirement has been in practice for a long time and aligns with Section 85 of the Personal Income Tax Act (PITA) 2004 (as amended).

    It is important to emphasize that every resident of the state, whether in formal employment or not, is required by law to file annual tax returns, declaring their income and paying any taxes due. This requirement is backed by the Nigerian Constitution, it is also the law, as stipulated in the PITA and part of the social contract between the government and residents.

    The Lagos State Government is dedicated to offering quality and efficient services to its residents. As part of this mission, it mandates that all taxable individuals register with the tax authority, submit their returns, and pay applicable taxes to maintain an updated Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC). Mr. Subair explained that tax compliance is essential for the sustainability of public programs and services.

    He noted that requiring a TCC for access to free services is not a new policy but a longstanding practice intended to foster fairness and transparency in using public resources. Tax revenues help fund various public programs that benefit millions of Lagos residents. For informal sector taxpayers, who might not have detailed financial records, the government has introduced a presumptive tax of ₦10,100 (comprising ₦10,000 in annual tax and a ₦100 development levy) to facilitate their inclusion in the tax net.

    To enhance convenience and streamline the process, LIRS has deployed staff and agents to markets and schools, establishing one-stop centers where individuals can obtain their TCC without needing to visit tax offices. Flexible payment options, including installment plans, are also available, though full payment must be completed before the TCC is issued. He also added that the TCC of guardians will be accepted from students who do not reside with their biological parents.

    “The aim is fairness, accountability, and sustainability,” emphasized Mr. Subair. “This policy is not about inflicting hardship, but rather ensuring that everyone, including those in the formal sector, contributes their fair share to sustain the provision of essential services.”

    By meeting their civic responsibilities, residents play a role in the growth and development of Lagos State, reinforcing the government’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.

  • LIRS Sets January 31 Deadline for Annual Tax Returns Filing by Employers

    LIRS Sets January 31 Deadline for Annual Tax Returns Filing by Employers

    The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has issued a reminder to all employers in Lagos State to fulfill their statutory obligation to file annual tax returns for the 2024 financial year on or before January 31, 2025. This requirement is in line with the Personal Income Tax Act (PITA) Cap P8 LFN 2004 (as amended).

    In an official statement, the Executive Chairman of LIRS, Dr. Ayodele Subair, emphasized that meeting this deadline is a legal obligation. He warned that failure to comply will result in statutory sanctions, including penalties, as prescribed by law.

    Section 81 of PITA mandates employers to submit comprehensive annual returns detailing all emoluments paid to employees, including taxes deducted and remitted to relevant tax authorities. These returns must be filed no later than January 31 each year and cover the income and taxes paid during the preceding year (2024).

    Dr. Subair stressed, “Employers must prioritize the timely filing of their annual income tax returns to avoid penalties. Submitting returns on or before the deadline ensures compliance with the law and supports accurate revenue tracking, which is essential for Lagos State’s fiscal planning and sustainability.”

    To simplify the process, LIRS has transitioned to a fully digital filing system. Employers must file their annual tax returns exclusively through the LIRS e-Tax portal at https://etax.lirs.net. Manual submissions are no longer accepted. Mr. Subair described the e-Tax platform as secure, user-friendly, and designed to provide employers with a convenient way to manage their tax obligations.

    Employers are reminded to include the Payer ID of all employees in their returns. Employees without a Taxpayer ID are advised to generate one immediately on the e-Tax platform to prevent disruptions during the filing process.

    To assist employers, LIRS has deployed staff across its offices to provide guidance on using the e-Tax portal and addressing related concerns. Employers are encouraged to act promptly to meet the deadline and ensure compliance with tax laws.

    For further information or assistance, employers and taxpayers can use the following support channels:

                •           Website: www.lirs.gov.ng

                •           Social Media:

                •           Facebook and LinkedIn: Lagos State Internal Revenue Service

                •           Instagram and YouTube: @lirsgovng

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  • Honour For Mr. Revenue: Ayodele Subair Receives Honorary Doctorate Degree

    Honour For Mr. Revenue: Ayodele Subair Receives Honorary Doctorate Degree

    The Executive Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), Mr. Ayodele Subair, has been conferred with a doctorate degree in Business Administration (honoris causa) by the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA).

    Subair received the prestigious award at the institution’s 13th convocation ceremony and 25th anniversary on Saturday, December 14, 2024.

    The prestigious honour given to the LIRS boss, according to the institution’s Vice Chancellor, Prof Olugbenga lge, “recognizes his outstanding contributions to the development of taxation in Nigeria and his exemplary leadership in steering the agency to unprecedented success.”

    Under Dr. Subair’s visionary guidance, LIRS has recorded an impressive revenue growth of 310%. His dedication to innovation and operational excellence has established LIRS as a benchmark for effective tax administration in the country.

    In his acceptance speech, Dr. Subair expressed heartfelt gratitude for the recognition and emphasized the transformative power of education. He encouraged the graduands to serve as agents of change and consistently champion the cause of education in their daily lives.

    Addressing the students, he urged them to embrace lifelong learning and highlighted their vital role as future leaders, innovators, and change-makers whose contributions would profoundly impact society.

    “We are incredibly proud of Dr. Subair for this well-deserved honour,” said Monsurat Amasa-Oyelude, Deputy Director of Corporate Communications. “This recognition not only celebrates his individual achievements but also reflects the values we uphold at LIRS. Together, we look forward to achieving even greater milestones and fostering community development.”

    At the investiture, Dr. Subair was surrounded by his colleagues, friends and family.

  • LIRS Extends Deadline For Filing Of Annual Tax Returns To February 7

    LIRS Extends Deadline For Filing Of Annual Tax Returns To February 7

    In view of the recent downtime experienced on the e-tax portal, the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has extended the filing of employers’ annual tax returns by 1 (one) week starting from February 1 to February 7, 2024.

    Mr. Ayodele Subair, the Executive Chairman of LIRS, conveyed this in a public notice released by the agency on Tuesday.

    Statutorily, the filing of annual tax returns by companies expires on January 31st of each fiscal year and attracts stiff penalties for defaulters. Taxpayers are hereby advised to take advantage of this extension to perform their civic obligation.

    This extension is aimed at providing taxpayers with additional time to ensure accurate and timely submission of their annual tax returns.

    Subair urged employers of labour to take full advantage of the extension to perform their civic obligation to avoid penalties and other statutory sanctions outlined in section 81(3) of the Personal Income Tax (Amendment) Act 2011.

    “We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, and this extension is intended to accommodate such instances.

    “We implore all employers of labour within Lagos State, who are experiencing difficulties in the filing of their annual tax returns to call our customer service centre on 0700 CALL LIRS (0700 2255 5477) or visit the help desks at our various tax stations.

    “It is important to adhere to the revised deadline to maintain compliance and avoid any potential penalties.

  • LIRS Affirms January 31st Deadline for Employers to Submit Annual Tax Returns

    LIRS Affirms January 31st Deadline for Employers to Submit Annual Tax Returns

    In accordance with applicable tax legislation, the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has communicated a reminder to all Employers of Labour to submit their annual tax returns on or before the stipulated deadline of January 31, 2024.

    Mr. Ayodele Subair, the Executive Chairman of LIRS, conveyed this in an official statement released by the agency. Subair emphasized that employers of labour with businesses located within Lagos State must adhere to the deadline, as failure to comply will result in penalties and other statutory sanctions outlined in section 81(3) of the Personal Income Tax (Amendment) Act 2011.

    Mr. Subair reiterated that the exclusive platform for filing annual income tax returns in Lagos State is the LIRS e-Tax portal: https://etax.lirs.net, as manual filing is no longer permissible. He urged businesses and employers to leverage the e-Tax portal for filing, citing its user-friendly, convenient, and secure nature.

    “The e-Tax portal is designed for the convenience of taxpayers, making tax transactions easily accessible from the comfort of homes and offices,” noted Subair.

    He emphasized that the Taxpayer ID is a mandatory requirement for all employers to file their annual income tax returns on the e-Tax portal. Employers within the State are advised to generate a taxpayer ID (where applicable) for their employees and to file their P.A.Y.E returns through the e-Tax portal.

    To facilitate compliance and address any filing-related concerns, LIRS has designated staff at its various offices to assist taxpayers in utilizing the e-Tax portal. For additional information or inquiries, taxpayers are encouraged to visit the agency’s website: www.lirs.gov.ng, follow LIRS on social media platforms: @lirsgovng, reach out via email at etaxinfo@lirs.net, or contact the LIRS customer care:

  • LIRS Reaffirms January 31 Deadline For Filing Of Annual Tax Returns By Employers of Labour

    LIRS Reaffirms January 31 Deadline For Filing Of Annual Tax Returns By Employers of Labour

    The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has announced that January 31, 2023, remains the deadline for filing the annual tax returns by employers of labour.

    The LIRS Executive Chairman, Mr Ayodele Subair made this known in a statement signed by the Head, Corporate Communications of LIRS, Monsurat Amasa.

     According to the LIRS Executive Chairman, all businesses and employers of labour residents within Lagos State must file their annual income tax returns on or before January 31, 2023, as failure to comply with the directive would attract penalties as well as other statutory sanctions as stipulated in section 81 (2) of the Personal Income Tax Act (PITA) Cap P8 LFN 2004 (as amended).

    The Act stipulates January 31st as the deadline for filing of annual income tax returns, failing which a penalty accrues.

    “For filing the annual income tax returns in Lagos State, the only available platform is the LIRS e-Tax portal: https://etax.lirs.net. The e-Tax portal is built for the convenience of taxpayers and is easy, convenient and safe. All businesses and employers of labour are advised to use the e-Tax portal to file their returns.

    “With the eTax system, corporate bodies are expected to find it more convenient to carry out tax transactions in the comfort of their homes and offices, Subair noted. 

    To be on the eTax platform, corporate bodies can follow these steps: Visit https://etax.lirs.net, input your company payer ID, password and click login; Step two: Generate your bill and Step three: Make your payment. 

    ‘’Taxpayer ID of all employees is compulsory for the annual income tax returns to be successfully filed on the e-Tax portal. Therefore, all employees and taxable persons within the State are advised to generate a taxpayer ID (where applicable) and file their individual annual income tax returns on the e-Tax portal.’’

  • ATAF General Assembly: Nami calls for Effective Revenue Utilization by African Governments

    ATAF General Assembly: Nami calls for Effective Revenue Utilization by African Governments

    Governments across Africa must begin to rethink governance, and engender public confidence and trust in government by providing value for taxpayers’ money in line with their obligations under the social contract they have with citizens.

    This was the call made to African Governments by the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Muhammad Nami at the Opening Ceremony of the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) 7th General Assembly, held in Lagos, Nigeria, Tuesday.

    Muhammad Nami who made this call in his opening remarks to the 7th General Assembly, with the theme “Rethinking Revenue Strategies: The Human Face of Taxation,” added that it was imperative for African Tax Administrators to mobilise and speak with one voice as a regional bloc on global tax issues for their collective interests.

    “The Fiscal social contract which hinges on the willingness of the citizens to pay tax in return for the provision of public service is a clarion call on the government at all levels in Africa to rethink governance.

    “In my view, if we must transform the tax system and enhance revenue collection in Africa, there is a need for the governance at all levels to engender public confidence and trust in government by providing value for taxpayers’ money”, Nami said.

    Nami also stated that governments should reconsider how projects are reported in the public space, with such reports communicating to convey the idea that taxpayers’ money is used to fund infrastructural projects.

    The Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu who was represented by the Executive Chairman of Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), Mr. Hamzat Ayodele Subair, in the same vein said that there was the need to give taxation a human face, by implementing projects with taxpayers’ money that impact the lives of the citizens.

    “There is no development without funding. We have amongst others, embarked on major transformational infrastructure projects cutting across transport, health, education, agriculture, technology amongst others.

    “These major infrastructural interventions are designed to improve the quality of life of our citizens and re-engineer economic growth and development trajectory with improved productivity of our citizenry, which invariably improves our tax generating abilities.

    “In a bid to save the human face of taxation, communication and feedback from the taxpayer are of paramount importance,” Mr. Subair noted.

    Similarly, in his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the African Tax Administration Forum, Mr. Logan Wort noted that a critical component of rethinking Domestic Revenue Mobilization is to ensure that government has an impact on the lives of citizens.

    “While we consider strategies or frameworks within which to enhance Domestic Resource Mobilization on the continent, we must always put into perspective its primary objective—being the impact on people’s lives as reflected by ATAF’s mandate in the new decade which is to serve the higher purpose of enabling and assisting African governments to mobilize their own domestic resources through taxation in order to build states that foster economic growth and social development in the interest and wellbeing of all their citizens.

    “This mandate especially the latter part is one we all share in various capacities across our jurisdictions, and one that must drive our Domestic Resource Mobilization objectives”, Mr. Wort said.

    The 7th ATAF General Assembly, which is being hosted by the FIRS, has in attendance tax administrators from 41 tax authorities in Africa. It is the first physical gathering of the forum since the COVID-19 pandemic.