The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has launched an Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) code specifically targeted at improving taxpayers’ satisfaction.

FIRS Chairman Zacch Adedeji launched the code at the Revenue House in Abuja as part of activities making this year’s Customer Service Week on Wednesday, October 9, 2024.

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

The FIRS chairman said taxpayers on any mobile telecommunication network in the country can now get across to FIRS real-time on issues relating to retrieval of Taxpayers Identification Number (TIN), verification of Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC), information on tax types and rates, locate the nearest FIRS office, and as well as get answers to general tax-related inquiries.

Adedeji 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.”

He called on taxpayers to enjoy the benefits that the USSD code offers and utilise the code for all their enquiries.

Adedeji 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.

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

The FIRS boss added: “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.

“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.”

Also speaking at the event, the national coordinator of Servicom, Nnenna Akajemeli, commended the effort of the FIRS towards taxpayers’ satisfaction, noting that the efforts were evident.

The Star