Nigerians risk paying a ₦100,000 penalty if they fail to file their 2025 Personal Income Tax (PIT) returns before the March 31, 2026 deadline, as tax authorities step up enforcement across the country.

With the deadline fast approaching, individuals nationwide are rushing to submit their annual tax returns in compliance with existing tax regulations aimed at expanding Nigeria’s tax net.

The filing requirement applies to all taxable individuals, including workers under the Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) system, self-employed professionals, freelancers, business owners, and individuals operating within the informal sector.

Authorities stress that employees whose taxes are already deducted at source are not exempt. Such individuals must still file annual returns declaring all sources of income, as required by law.

Under Nigeria’s tax laws, failure to submit tax returns before the March 31 deadline attracts stiff penalties.
Defaulting taxpayers face an automatic fine of ₦100,000 for the first month of non-compliance. This is followed by an additional ₦50,000 for every subsequent month the return remains unfiled.

Tax authorities may also impose interest on unpaid tax liabilities and issue what is known as a “best-of-judgment” assessment, where officials estimate a taxpayer’s earnings and demand payment accordingly.

The ongoing enforcement drive is part of broader efforts by the government to expand Nigeria’s tax base, improve compliance, and increase revenue generation.

Officials say the initiative targets both formal and informal sectors, as authorities intensify monitoring of tax filings nationwide.

Tax authorities have also warned taxpayers against submitting false information or forged documents, noting that such actions could attract additional penalties and legal consequences under applicable tax laws.

With the March 31, 2026 deadline firmly in place, eligible Nigerians are advised to complete and submit their Personal Income Tax returns promptly to avoid penalties and enforcement actions.


By Benue Info-pedia