The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has successfully integrated over 1,000 large taxpayers into its new e-invoicing platform, just two weeks after its official launch. This is a key step in the government’s effort to modernize tax administration and increase revenue. Top telecom industry players MTN Nigeria, Huawei Nigeria, and IHS Nigeria. are among the early birds.
The National E-Invoicing Solution is a new system designed to capture business transactions electronically. It aims to reduce tax evasion, prevent under-declaration of income, and bring more businesses into the formal economy.
- Key Goal: To ensure the government is aware of a business transaction from its start, making it easier for taxpayers to comply with the law.
- Early Adopters: The first companies to use the platform include major brands like MTN Nigeria, Huawei Nigeria, and IHS Nigeria.
- System Integrators: The FIRS has also certified 16 companies to help other businesses integrate their systems with the new platform.
Deadline Extended
Recognizing that the rollout is still in its early stages, the FIRS has extended the integration deadline for all large taxpayers to November 1, 2025. Emmanuel Eze, the Director of Change Management at FIRS, stressed that this extension is an opportunity for companies to complete their integration and resolve any technical issues before enforcement begins.
According to Mohammed Bawa, FIRS Project Manager the system will eventually require all businesses to be on the platform to transact with one another, using standardized invoices and verified information.
Data Security and National Goals
The FIRS has also addressed concerns about data security. Mike Adoga, the Acting Director of Tax Automation, assured stakeholders that all data will be kept confidential in line with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA).
Adoga highlighted the urgency of the initiative, noting that Nigeria’s tax-to-GDP ratio is only around 10 per cent, which is not sufficient for a strong economy. He emphasized that digital solutions like e-invoicing are essential to close this gap, formalize the informal sector, and build a more robust tax base.
