…Becomes 6th African nation to embrace USSD innovation
Business a.m.
The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has unveiled a Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) code *829#, aimed at enhancing taxpayers’ satisfaction and ease of doing business in Nigeria.
This initiative makes the country the sixth African nation to integrate USSD code technology into tax payment processes, joining the likes of South Africa, Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda and Botswana in simplifying the experience for taxpayers and putting Nigeria at the forefront of tax innovation in the sub-Saharan Africa region.
Zacch Adedeji, the FIRS chairman, launched the code at the Revenue House in Abuja, recently, as part of activities making this year’s Customer Service Week which has the theme “Above and Beyond”.
According to Dare Adekanmbi, special adviser on media to the FIRS chairman, the newly introduced USSD Code *829# enables taxpayers on any mobile telecommunication network in Nigeria to engage with FIRS instantly regarding various tax-related concerns, such as Taxpayers Identification Number (TIN) retrieval, Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC) verification, tax type and rate information, and locating the nearest FIRS office.
Adedeji, in his remarks at the ceremony, said the instant messaging protocol demonstrated further commitment of the agency to simplifying tax administration and ensuring that “every taxpayer—whether in bustling cities or remote areas—can engage with FIRS seamlessly.”
The FIRS chairman encouraged taxpayers to enjoy the benefits that the USSD code offers and utilise the code for all their enquiries.
“With the *829# USSD code, taxpayers now have the power to: retrieve their Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), verify their Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC), access information on tax types and rates, locate the nearest FIRS office, and get answers to general tax-related inquiries.
“Without the need for internet access, all of these services are now available with a simple mobile phone. This technological leap reflects our dedication to creating a tax system that is efficient, transparent, and responsive to the needs of taxpayers,” he said.
The agency also unveiled its Customer Centricity Guide, a comprehensive booklet containing guidelines for FIRS personnel to ensure taxpayers remain in their “rightful position” as the “kings” of the service.
In explaining the importance of the Customer Centricity Guide, Adedeji emphasized that it symbolises FIRS’ commitment to taxpayers.
He further elaborated that the guide outlines the principles and values that will steer its interactions with taxpayers, ensuring every engagement is characterised by respect, professionalism, and efficiency.
“The guide serves as a reminder to us all that the taxpayer is not just a client, but a valued partner in nation-building. Through the combination of the *829# USSD code and the Customer Centricity Guide, we are reinforcing a culture of service excellence and making tax compliance not just a duty but an experience that fosters trust and voluntary participation.
“As we celebrate this achievement, I encourage everyone to make full use of the *829# service and embrace the Customer Centricity Guide. Your feedback will be crucial as we continue to enhance these services and meet the evolving needs of our taxpayers,” he said.
Nnenna Akajemeli, the national coordinator of Servicom, applauded the FIRS for their commendable efforts towards enhancing taxpayers’ satisfaction.
Akajemeli observed that the efforts being made by the FIRS were clearly visible and would undoubtedly benefit taxpayers.
“There are many things to congratulate the FIRS on. One is the launch of the USSD code *829# and the customer centricity guide. These initiatives which are simplifying tax and ensuring that citizens and taxpayers are delighted at the quality of service you render,” she stated.
