### LIRS Sets January 31, 2026 Deadline for Employers to File 2025 Tax Returns The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has officially announced that all employers in Lagos State must submit their annual tax returns for the 2025 financial year by January 31, 2026. This deadline is mandated under the Nigeria Tax Administration Act 2025, emphasizing the legal obligation of employers to comply with tax regulations. The LIRS has made it clear that failure to meet this deadline could result in penalties for non-compliance, urging employers to act promptly to avoid any consequences [https://punchng.com/lirs-fixes-jan-31-deadline-for-2025-tax-returns][https://dailypost.ng/2026/01/16/file-annual-return-now-or-face-consequences-lirs-to-employers]. ### Overview of the LIRS Announcement and Implications 1. **Deadline Confirmation**: The LIRS has reiterated that January 31, 2026, is the statutory deadline for filing annual tax returns for the 2025 financial year [https://techeconomy.ng/lagos-employers-must-file-2025-tax-returns-by-january-31-lirs]. 2. **Legal Framework**: This directive aligns with the Nigeria Tax Administration Act 2025, which outlines the responsibilities of employers regarding tax filings [https://theindustryng.com/lirs-sets-jan-31-deadline-for-employers-tax-returns]. 3. **Consequences of Non-Compliance**: Employers are warned that failing to file by the deadline may lead to penalties, emphasizing the importance of timely submission [https://nivonews.com/2026/01/16/2025-tax-returns-lirs-gives-lagos-employers-deadline-warns-of-penalties]. 4. **Communication from LIRS**: Dr. Ayodele Subair, the Executive Chairman of LIRS, has been vocal in reminding employers of their obligations, reinforcing the need for compliance [https://www.tvcnews.tv/lirs-sets-january-31-deadline-to-file-2025-annual-tax-returns]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Key Dates**: - **Deadline for Filing**: January 31, 2026 - **Financial Year**: 2025 - **Legal Reference**: The Nigeria Tax Administration Act 2025 serves as the legal basis for this requirement, ensuring that employers are aware of their obligations [https://businesshilights.com.ng/2026/01/16/lirs-reiterates-jan-31st-deadline-for-employers-annual-tax-returns-filing]. - **Potential Penalties**: Specific penalties for late filing have not been detailed, but the LIRS has indicated that consequences will be enforced [https://newtelegraphng.com/lirs-reiterates-january-31-deadline-for-employers-tax-returns-filing]. ### Conclusion and Recommendations In summary, the LIRS has firmly established January 31, 2026, as the deadline for employers in Lagos State to file their 2025 annual tax returns. 1. **Immediate Action Required**: Employers should prioritize the preparation and submission of their tax returns to avoid penalties. 2. **Legal Compliance**: Understanding the Nigeria Tax Administration Act 2025 is crucial for all employers to ensure compliance with tax obligations. 3. **Stay Informed**: Employers are encouraged to stay updated with any further communications from the LIRS regarding tax filing procedures and requirements [https://thelagostimes.com.ng/lagos-lirs-sets-january-31-deadline-for-2025-annual-tax-returns]. By adhering to these guidelines, employers can ensure they meet their legal obligations and avoid any potential repercussions.