Updated April 2026 • Nigeria Finance Guide • 8 min read
Understanding Nigeria's income tax is essential for every working Nigerian. PITA establishes graduated rates from 7% to 24%.
The tax brackets: First NGN 300K at 7%, 300K-600K at 11%, 600K-1.1M at 15%, 1.1M-1.6M at 19%, 1.6M-3.2M at 21%, above 3.2M at 24%. The Consolidated Relief Allowance (CRA) of 20% of gross plus NGN 200K reduces taxable income significantly.
PAYE is deducted monthly by employers. Self-employed must file annual returns by March 31. Deductions include pension (8%), NHF (2.5%), and life insurance. Use the FIRS TaxPro app for easy filing.
VAT in Nigeria is 7.5% on most goods and services. Basic food, medical, and educational items are exempt. Late filing penalties are NGN 50,000 for individuals.
Rates range from 7% (first NGN 300K) to 24% (above NGN 3.2M) with a Consolidated Relief Allowance reducing taxable income.
Individual returns must be filed by March 31. Late filing incurs NGN 50,000 penalty.
Subtract CRA and deductions from gross income then apply graduated rates from 7% to 24%.
CRA (20% of gross + NGN 200K), pension (8%), NHF (2.5%), life insurance, and voluntary pension.
7.5% on most goods and services. Basic food, medical, and education items are exempt.