.jpeg)
The launch took place at the Revenue House in Abuja, led by FIRS chairman Zacch Adedeji, as part of the events celebrating this year’s Customer Service Week, themed "Above and Beyond."
With this initiative, Nigeria becomes the sixth African nation to implement a USSD code to streamline tax payment processes.
According to a statement from Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS chairman, taxpayers across all mobile networks in the country can now connect with FIRS in real-time for assistance with retrieving their Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), verifying their Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC), obtaining information on tax types and rates, locating the nearest FIRS office, and addressing general tax-related questions.
During the launch, Adedeji emphasized that this instant messaging solution reflects the agency's ongoing commitment to simplifying tax administration, ensuring that “every taxpayer—whether in busy urban centers or remote locations—can interact with FIRS effortlessly.” He encouraged taxpayers to take advantage of the benefits provided by the USSD code for all their inquiries.
With the *829# USSD code, taxpayers can now easily retrieve their Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), verify their Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC), access information on various tax types and rates, find the nearest FIRS office, and receive answers to general tax-related questions.
All of these services are now accessible through a basic mobile phone, eliminating the need for internet connectivity. This advancement underscores our commitment to developing a tax system that is efficient, transparent, and attuned to the needs of taxpayers, he stated.
The agency has also introduced the Customer Centricity Guide, a comprehensive booklet detailing policies, processes, and procedures designed to uphold the status of taxpayers as 'kings.'
“The launch of the Customer Centricity Guide is equally significant. This guide reflects our dedication to prioritizing taxpayers in our service delivery.
“It delineates the principles and values that will govern our interactions with taxpayers, ensuring that every engagement is characterized by respect, professionalism, and efficiency.
“This guide serves as a reminder that taxpayers are not merely clients but essential partners in the process of nation-building. By integrating the *829# USSD code with the Customer Centricity Guide, we are fostering a culture of service excellence, transforming tax compliance into an experience that encourages trust and voluntary participation.
“As we celebrate this milestone, I urge everyone to fully utilize the *829# service and engage with the Customer Centricity Guide. Your feedback will be vital as we strive to improve these services and adapt to the changing needs of our taxpayers,” he remarked.
Nnenna Akajemeli, the national coordinator of Servicom, commended the FIRS for its efforts in enhancing taxpayer satisfaction, noting the visible impact of these initiatives.
“There are numerous reasons to commend the FIRS, particularly the introduction of the USSD code *829# and the Customer Centricity Guide. These initiatives simplify tax processes and ensure that citizens and taxpayers are pleased with the quality of service provided,” she stated.
The Director of the Taxpayers’ Service Department at FIRS, Loveth Onanuga, emphasized that the agency understands customer-centricity as extending beyond merely meeting the fundamental needs of customers. It involves exceeding their expectations and delivering exceptional service, aligning with the theme of the week.