The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) says it has discontinued the issuance of tax exemption certificates to all categories of taxpayers, including pioneer status companies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and entities operating in free trade zones.
In a public notice issued by FIRS, the tax authority said the decision is part of ongoing efforts to ensure transparency and adherence to existing tax laws.
“The issuance of Tax Exemption Certificates has been discontinued,” the statement read.
“Consequently, no further Tax Exemption Certificates will be issued.”
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FIRS noted that exemption certificates that have already been issued remain valid until their expiry date.
However, the agency said no renewals will be granted once they lapse.
The agency warned that going forward, all claims for tax benefits or exemptions must strictly comply with applicable laws and follow procedures approved by FIRS.
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“Any attempt to forge, alter, or misrepresent exemption status will attract strict penalties prescribed by the laws,” the tax authority said.
FIRS added that it remains committed to building a fair and transparent tax system, and called on all affected stakeholders to align with the revised procedures and legal obligations.
“All further enquiries on the above subject should be addressed to the executive chairman,” the notice added.
On July 22, Zacch Adedeji, the executive chairman of the FIRS, said Nigeria loses billions annually due to aggressive tax avoidance by multinationals, which undermines governance, erodes trust, and affects infrastructure, public services, and inequality.
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