The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has introduced a new unstructured supplementary service data (USSD) code, *829#, to enhance tax processes and improve taxpayer satisfaction. The code was launched by FIRS Chairman Zacch Adedeji during the 2024 Customer Service Week celebration at the revenue house in Abuja.
With this initiative, Nigeria becomes the sixth African country to adopt a USSD code for tax payment simplification. Taxpayers across all mobile networks can now access real-time support for tax-related issues.
Adedeji emphasized that this technological advancement aligns with FIRS’s goal of making tax administration more user-friendly. “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 stated. Importantly, these services do not require internet access, making them accessible via any mobile phone.
“This reflects our dedication to creating a tax system that is efficient, transparent, and responsive to the needs of taxpayers,” Adedeji adde.
In addition to the USSD code, FIRS unveiled a customer-centric guide detailing the agency’s policies, processes, and procedures to enhance its service delivery. This guide aims to treat taxpayers as valued partners in nation-building, underscoring the agency’s commitment to a respectful and efficient interaction with all taxpayers.
The guide states, “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.” Adedeji highlighted that the combination of the *829# USSD code and the customer-centric guide would foster a culture of service excellence, making tax compliance a more engaging experience.
Nnenna Akajemeli, national coordinator of Servicom, commended the FIRS for its ongoing efforts to improve taxpayer satisfaction, praising the introduction of both the USSD code and the customer guide for their roles in simplifying tax processes and enhancing service quality.
As FIRS continues to evolve its services, they encourage taxpayers to utilize the *829# USSD service and provide feedback to further enhance these offerings.
