The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, LIRS, has reiterated January 31, 2026, as the deadline for all employers in the state 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 requirement is a statutory obligation under the Nigeria Tax Administration Act 2025, NTAA.
Dr Subair explained that employers are mandated to submit detailed returns on emoluments and other compensation paid to employees, as well as payments made to service providers, vendors, and consultants, and to ensure that all applicable taxes due for 2025 are fully remitted.
He stressed that the filing of annual returns is compulsory, warning that failure to comply will attract statutory sanctions, including administrative penalties, as provided for under the new tax law.
According to Section 14 of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act 2025, employers are required to file comprehensive annual returns of all emoluments paid to employees, including taxes deducted and remitted to the relevant tax authorities, not later than January 31 of every year.
“Employers must prioritise the timely filing of their annual income tax returns. Compliance should be part of our everyday business practice,” Dr Subair said. “Early and accurate filing not only ensures adherence to the law, but also supports effective revenue tracking, which is vital to Lagos State’s fiscal planning and sustainability.”
The LIRS boss also reiterated that electronic filing through the LIRS eTax platform remains the only approved method for submitting annual returns, noting that manual submissions have been completely phased out in the state.
He said the move is aimed at simplifying and standardising tax administration processes, while making compliance easier for employers.
Employers are therefore required to submit their annual tax returns exclusively through the LIRS eTax portal.
Dr Subair described the eTax platform as secure, user-friendly, and accessible round the clock, adding that it provides a convenient and efficient means for organisations to meet their tax obligations.
He further advised employers to ensure that the Tax Identification Numbers (TaxID) of all employees are correctly captured during filing, warning that employees without a TaxID should generate one promptly to avoid delays or disruptions in the process.