(DDM) – The Federal Inland Revenue Service has clarified that the National Identification Number issued by the National Identity Management Commission now automatically serves as the Tax Identification Number for individual Nigerians.

The clarification was made on Monday as part of a public awareness campaign on the newly enacted tax laws, which the FIRS shared via its official X platform.
The tax authority said the integration of the NIN and TIN systems is aimed at simplifying tax administration in Nigeria.

According to the FIRS, individuals are no longer required to apply separately for a Tax Identification Number.
The service explained that the policy is designed to reduce duplication and improve efficiency in taxpayer identification.
It noted that the move aligns with the Federal Government’s broader digital identity and tax reform agenda.
The FIRS said the harmonisation would make it easier to track tax compliance across different income categories.
Officials stated that linking NIN to tax records would strengthen transparency and accountability in revenue collection.
The agency emphasized that the measure applies strictly to individual taxpayers and not corporate entities.
For companies and registered businesses, existing TIN arrangements remain unchanged.
The FIRS explained that Nigeria has struggled for years with a fragmented taxpayer database.
It said this fragmentation contributed to widespread tax evasion and a narrow tax base.
By using the NIN as TIN, the agency believes more Nigerians will be captured in the tax net.
The FIRS stressed that the initiative is not intended to burden citizens.
Instead, it said the goal is to make tax processes simpler and more accessible.
The service added that individuals with NINs are already registered in a national database.
It said leveraging that database reduces administrative costs and paperwork.
According to the FIRS, the integration also supports data accuracy and reduces identity fraud.
The agency assured Nigerians that personal data would be handled in line with existing data protection laws.
It noted that collaboration between FIRS and NIMC has been ongoing for several years.
This collaboration, the agency said, is part of efforts to harmonise government databases.
The announcement comes amid the implementation of new tax reform laws recently signed by the Federal Government.
Authorities say the reforms are aimed at boosting non-oil revenue and strengthening fiscal sustainability.
Nigeria has faced declining oil revenues due to global market fluctuations and production challenges.
As a result, successive administrations have sought to expand non-oil revenue sources.
Tax reform has remained a central pillar of these efforts.
However, public trust in tax administration has often been weak.
Many Nigerians have complained about complexity, inefficiency, and lack of transparency in tax processes.
The FIRS said the NIN-TIN integration is meant to address some of these concerns.
It said a single identification number would reduce confusion among taxpayers.
The agency also said it would improve voluntary compliance.
According to the FIRS, individuals can now use their NIN for all tax-related transactions.
This includes filing returns, paying taxes, and accessing tax services.
The service urged Nigerians who have not enrolled for NIN to do so promptly.
It said NIN enrolment is now critical for participation in the formal economy.
The FIRS added that further public enlightenment campaigns would be carried out nationwide.
It said the aim is to ensure citizens fully understand the implications of the new policy.
Tax experts have described the integration as a significant step toward modernising Nigeria’s tax system.
They noted that many countries use a single identification number for multiple government services.
Analysts said the success of the policy would depend on effective implementation.
They also stressed the importance of public trust and data security.
Civil society groups have called on the government to ensure the policy does not exclude vulnerable populations.
They warned that millions of Nigerians still lack access to NIN registration centres.
The FIRS acknowledged these concerns and said efforts are ongoing to expand NIN enrolment.
It said collaboration with NIMC would continue to improve coverage, especially in rural areas.
As the policy takes effect, Nigerians are expected to gradually adjust to the new system.
The integration of NIN and TIN marks another milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing tax reform journey.

(DDM) – Kirikasamma Local Government Area of Jigawa State has introduced monthly allowances for former chairmen, deputies, councillors, and other past political appointees.

The initiative was announced as part of efforts to strengthen engagement, consultation, and collaboration with former leaders who once served in the council.

The chairman of Kirikasamma Local Government, Maji Wakili Marma, disclosed this on Monday at the council headquarters.

He explained that the policy is designed to recognise the contributions of past office holders to the development of the local government.

Marma said former leaders possess valuable experience and institutional memory that can support effective governance.

According to him, sustaining cordial relationships with past officials helps promote unity and political stability at the grassroots level.

He noted that governance should not end with tenure but should encourage continuous participation in community development.

The chairman stated that the allowances are not rewards for political loyalty but acknowledgements of service rendered.

He added that the initiative would also motivate current office holders to serve diligently, knowing their efforts would be remembered.

Marma emphasized that former chairmen and councillors often play informal advisory roles in their communities.

He said such roles deserve recognition, especially in a system where grassroots governance is critical.

The council chairman clarified that the allowances would be modest and within the financial capacity of the local government.

He assured residents that the initiative would not affect funds meant for essential services or development projects.

Marma explained that transparency and accountability would guide the implementation of the policy.

He disclosed that a clear framework has been developed to identify eligible beneficiaries.

According to him, only duly elected or appointed former officials would benefit from the scheme.

The announcement has generated mixed reactions among residents and political observers in Jigawa State.

Some residents welcomed the initiative, describing it as a sign of respect for experience and service.

Supporters argued that former leaders often remain influential and can help mediate political and community disputes.

Others, however, expressed concerns about the financial implications of the policy.

Critics questioned whether public funds should be used to pay allowances to individuals no longer in office.

They argued that local governments should prioritise infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

Political analysts say such initiatives reflect broader debates about welfare for former political office holders in Nigeria.

Across the country, pensions and allowances for former officials have often sparked public controversy.

In several states, similar benefits have been challenged in court or criticised by civil society groups.

Supporters of such schemes argue that they promote continuity and respect for democratic service.

Opponents insist that they encourage elitism and strain limited public resources.

Background information shows that Kirikasamma Local Government is one of the 27 local government areas in Jigawa State.

The council operates under Nigeria’s local government system, which is constitutionally recognised as the third tier of government.

Local governments are responsible for primary healthcare, basic education, and rural development.

Funding challenges have long affected their ability to deliver services effectively.

In Jigawa State, successive administrations have emphasized grassroots development and political inclusion.

Observers say the new allowance policy aligns with efforts to maintain political harmony within the local government.

They note that former officials often command loyalty among supporters at the ward and village levels.

Engaging them formally could reduce political tension and opposition.

Marma urged residents to view the initiative as an investment in unity rather than a waste of resources.

He promised continuous dialogue with the public to address concerns about the policy.

The chairman also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to development and prudent financial management.

He said ongoing projects in education, health, and infrastructure would not be neglected.

As implementation begins, many residents are watching closely to see its impact on governance.

The policy has added to ongoing discussions about accountability and priorities in local government administration.

For now, the Kirikasamma council maintains that recognising past leaders will strengthen inclusive governance.

(DDM) – The Rivers State Police Command has announced the implementation of comprehensive security measures to ensure a peaceful and secure Yuletide season across the state.

The command said the measures are being carried out in collaboration with sister security agencies to guarantee safety before, during, and after the festive period.

The announcement was made as part of efforts to prevent crime and maintain public order during increased social and economic activities associated with the season.

According to the police, the Yuletide period often records a surge in movement, gatherings, and commercial transactions.

The command noted that such activities can create opportunities for criminal elements if not properly managed.

The Rivers State Police Command assured residents that proactive steps have been taken to forestall any breakdown of law and order.

It stated that officers have been strategically deployed across major roads, worship centres, markets, recreational areas, and other public spaces.

The police said visibility patrols have been intensified in urban and rural communities across the state.

Special tactical teams have also been positioned at identified flashpoints based on intelligence reports.

The command disclosed that surveillance and stop-and-search operations would be conducted in a professional and citizen-friendly manner.

Residents were urged to cooperate with security personnel and promptly report any suspicious movement or activities.

The police emphasized that collaboration between the public and security agencies remains critical to effective crime prevention.

In addition to policing efforts, the command said it is working closely with the military, civil defence, and other law enforcement bodies.

This inter-agency collaboration is aimed at ensuring rapid response to emergencies and coordinated operations when necessary.

The command warned criminal elements to stay away from Rivers State during the festive season.

It stated that anyone found engaging in criminal activities would be dealt with according to the law.

Beyond security enforcement, the police also appealed to residents to reflect on the true meaning of the Yuletide season.

The command described the period as a time for sober reflection, prayers, and renewed commitment to peace.

Residents were encouraged to promote tolerance, unity, and mutual respect in their communities.

The police noted that peaceful coexistence remains essential for sustainable development in Rivers State.

The command also advised motorists to obey traffic rules to prevent road accidents during the festive rush.

It warned against reckless driving, drunk driving, and overloading of vehicles.

Parents and guardians were urged to monitor the activities of their children and wards during the holidays.

The police said youths should avoid cult-related activities and other forms of violence.

Background checks show that Rivers State has witnessed periods of heightened security concerns in past festive seasons.

Authorities say lessons learned from previous years informed the current security strategy.

The state government has consistently emphasized the importance of peace for economic growth and investment.

Rivers State remains one of Nigeria’s major economic hubs due to its oil and gas activities.

Security stability is therefore considered crucial for protecting lives, property, and business interests.

Community leaders have been encouraged to support the police by engaging residents at the grassroots level.

Religious leaders were also urged to preach peace and lawful conduct during services and gatherings.

Analysts say early security planning reduces panic and reassures residents.

They note that visible police presence often deters criminal activities during festive periods.

The Rivers State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and respect for human rights.

It assured residents that officers have been instructed to act within the law at all times.

The command expressed confidence that the measures put in place would guarantee a peaceful Yuletide celebration.

Residents were advised to remain vigilant while enjoying the festivities.

Emergency contact numbers were made available for rapid communication with the police.

As the season approaches, the command reiterated its readiness to safeguard lives and property across Rivers State.

Some women who recently took part in a protest opposing the alleged defection of Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress have admitted they were misled.

According to DDM, the women, who spoke under anonymity to avoid possible victimisation, said they participated without full understanding of the issues involved.

They disclosed that they were mobilised by leaders of the state PDP Women’s Wing under the belief that the action was necessary to protect party interests.

According to the women, the protest was organised in a hurried manner and participants were not properly briefed on its purpose.

Some of them said they were told that the governor had already concluded plans to defect to the ruling party.

They explained that the information given to them created fear and panic about the future of the PDP in Plateau State.

Several of the women claimed they later discovered that the alleged defection narrative was either exaggerated or completely false.

They accused the state Women’s Wing leadership, led by Mrs Elizabeth Yerse, of exploiting their loyalty to the party.

The women said they trusted the organisers and believed the protest was officially sanctioned by the party leadership.

They admitted that many participants simply followed instructions without questioning the authenticity of the claims.

Some of the women revealed that transportation and refreshments were provided to encourage turnout.

Others said they felt pressured to attend for fear of being labelled disloyal or anti-party.

They described the experience as embarrassing after realising they were used to advance internal political agendas.

The protest had drawn public attention after images circulated on social media showing women chanting against the governor.

At the time, the demonstration sparked speculation about a looming political crisis in Plateau State.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang, a member of the PDP, has consistently denied plans to defect to the APC.

His media aides have repeatedly described the defection rumours as false and politically motivated.

Political analysts say such rumours often emerge in states where opposition parties seek to weaken sitting governors.

Plateau State has a long history of intense party rivalry, especially between the PDP and APC.

The PDP regained control of the state in 2023 after defeating the APC in the governorship election.

Governor Mutfwang’s victory was widely seen as a significant comeback for the PDP in North Central Nigeria.

Since assuming office, the governor has faced legal battles, security challenges, and political opposition.

Observers say misinformation and internal party disputes remain common features of Nigerian politics.

Women’s groups are often mobilised for protests because of their visibility and emotional appeal.

Civil society organisations have warned against the manipulation of women for political propaganda.

The women involved in the Plateau protest said they now regret their participation.

They called on political leaders to stop using ordinary citizens as tools for misinformation.

Some of them urged party officials to always provide clear and truthful information before mobilising supporters.

They also appealed for internal reconciliation within the PDP to prevent future misunderstandings.

Political observers say the incident highlights the need for political education at the grassroots level.

They argue that informed participation strengthens democracy and reduces manipulation.

The Plateau incident has renewed debates about ethical conduct within party structures.

As of the time of reporting, the state PDP Women’s Wing leadership had not publicly responded to the allegations.

The development has continued to generate reactions across political circles and social media platforms.