Akwa Ibom residents have been assured that the new tax laws coming into effect from January 1, 2026, will ease the financial burden on low-income earners while improving Nigeria’s overall tax system. The assurance was given by the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS) during an engagement session with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, and media organisations in Uyo.
Executive Chairman of AKIRS, Sir Okon Okon, said the state government is introducing four new tax laws aimed at simplifying tax practices, reducing loopholes, and lifting pressure off small businesses. Presenting on the theme “Tax Reform: Synopsis of the Implications”, he explained that the Nigeria Tax Act, Nigeria Tax Administration Act, Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act will work together to offer a seamless experience for Nigerian taxpayers.
Sir Okon stated that these reforms specifically target low-income earners who have been exposed to multiple taxation over the years. According to him, the laws are not created to burden citizens but to create a fairer, friendlier system capable of supporting business growth and financial inclusion.
He also revealed that beginning January 1, 2026, all Nigerians will be required to acquire a Tax Identification Number (Tax ID) in addition to their National Identification Number (NIN). While concerns have circulated about the purpose of the Tax ID, Sir Okon dismissed fears that it is intended to monitor personal transactions or restrict financial freedom.
“The Tax ID will be automatically generated for every Nigerian with a valid National Identification Number (NIN). Section 8(2) of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act (NTAA) 2025 does not mean citizens’ bank accounts will be blocked on January 1, 2026,” he clarified. “It simply requires taxpayers to provide a Tax ID when seeking financial services.”
The AKIRS Chairman noted that over 50 exemptions and reliefs have been inserted in the new regime to help both individuals and businesses. Agriculture-based enterprises including crop and livestock production will enjoy a five-year tax holiday, alongside other important benefits targeted at boosting economic activities.
Sir Okon urged journalists and media houses to collaborate with AKIRS to sensitise citizens and provide accurate information about the reforms. He said proper awareness remains essential to correcting wrong assumptions and ensuring that residents understand how the new system works and how it benefits them.
Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, praised the briefing, saying it equips journalists with the knowledge needed to educate the public. He highlighted that media enlightenment will help dispel misconceptions and reassure people, especially low-income groups, that the changes aim to support their financial wellbeing.
Also speaking, Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Emem Bob, stressed that the reforms were designed to unify Nigeria’s fragmented tax structure, which had previously strained businesses. He commended AKIRS for leading awareness initiatives and expressed confidence that the campaign will guarantee accurate, timely information for the masses. Mr. Bob pledged the Ministry’s continued partnership in promoting understanding of the tax reforms across Akwa Ibom and beyond.
