by The Federal Executive Council (FEC) is proposing changes to the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act that will allow foreigners living in Nigeria to be issued National Identification Numbers (NIN). The proposal, made on Wednesday, is part of a plan to improve the country’s tax system by registering expatriates and income-earning immigrants.
In addition, the FEC has put forward the Economy Stabilisation Bill, which seeks to tax foreigners working and earning income in Nigeria. This bill aims to expand the scope of who is required to register for a NIN to include non-Nigerians with taxable income.
The proposed amendment would add a new paragraph to Section 16 of the NIMC Act, stating that “any person, whether or not a citizen of Nigeria, who is subject to tax in Nigeria” must register for a NIN. If this bill is passed into law, foreigners earning income in Nigeria will be taxed.
Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, explained the government’s intentions while speaking to reporters at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja. He said, “If the National Assembly passes the bill, everyone living in Nigeria, including foreigners, will be registered and given a NIN. This will also help track tax obligations.”
According to Onanuga, the NIN will serve as a tax identity for foreigners, ensuring they are included in Nigeria’s tax system. Previously, the NIMC Act did not allow foreigners to be registered for a NIN.
Additionally, the FEC is proposing a third bill to amend the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Act. This amendment will allow fees, charges, and fines to be paid in Naira instead of dollars. The aim is to strengthen the use of the national currency and reduce dependence on the dollar in Nigeria’s economy.
“Previously, maritime agencies charged in dollars, but now they will be required to accept payments in Naira to support the national currency,” Onanuga said.
These proposed changes, if approved, will have significant impacts on how foreigners living and working in Nigeria are taxed and will promote the use of Naira in business transactions.
