EoDB: FIRS launches USSD code to improve services, taxpayers’ satisfaction at CSW 2024

*Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of Nigeria’s Federal Inland Revenue Service, explains the tax agency had launched USSD Code *829# for taxpayers to retrieve Taxpayer Identification Numbers, verify Tax Clearance Certificates, access information on tax types and rates, locate the nearest FIRS office, and get answers to general tax-related inquiries in the economy

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

As part of measure at enhancing Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) in Nigeria, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Wednesday, October 9, 2024, activated an Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) Code *829# to enhance taxpayers’ satisfaction in the country’s economy.

Mr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of FIRS, stated this while launching the USSD code at the Revenue House Headquarters of the Federal tax administration agency, in Abuja, FCT.

The event is designated as part of activities making the 2024 Customer Service Week (CSW), with the theme, “Above and Beyond”.

The initiative makes Nigeria the sixth African country to deploy USSD code for simplifying tax payment processes in the economy.

Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser the FIRS chairman on Media, stated taxpayers on any mobile telecommunications network in the country could then get across to FIRS real-time on issues relating to retrieval of Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN), verification of Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC), information on tax types and rates, location of the nearest FIRS office, as well as getting answers to general tax-related inquiries in the ecosystem.

In his address at the event, FIRS Chairman Adedeji said the instant messaging protocol would demonstrate 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.”

Benefits of *829# USSD code to taxpayers, improved EoDB in Nigeria, by Adedeji

Adedeji urged taxpayers to enjoy the benefits that the USSD code offers and utilise the code for all their enquiries.

The Executive Chairman of FIRS further said: “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.

He further noted: “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.

“The agency also launched Customer Centricity Guide, a booklet containing policies, processes and procedures to ensure that FIRS keeps the taxpayers in their rightful position as ‘kings’.”

Adedeji stated: “Equally important is the unveiling of the Customer Centricity Guide. This guide embodies our commitment to putting taxpayers at the centre of our service delivery.

“It outlines the principles and values that will drive our interactions with taxpayers by ensuring that every engagement is defined by respect, professionalism, and efficiency.”

He said: “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.”

Nnenna Akajemeli, National Coordinator of Servicom, lauded the FIRS efforts at improving taxpayers’ satisfaction, noting that the efforts are evident.

Akajemeli said: “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.”

Speaking on the occasion, Loveth Onanuga, Director of Taxpayers’ Service Department at FIRS, affirmed the Federal tax administrator recognised that customer-centricity means more than just satisfying customers’ basic wants.

According to her, it means going “above and beyond what customers anticipate and astonishing them with great service” in line with the theme of the Customer Service Week.