By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The deadline for filing annual tax returns in Lagos State has been shifted by the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) by one week.
In a public notice on Tuesday, the executive chairman of the LIRS, Mr Ayodele Subair, said taxpayers, especially business organisations, have till Wednesday, February 7, 2024, to do the needful or risk being sanctioned by the government.
Mr Subair explained that the deadline was moved forward by the agency because of the recent downtime experienced on the e-tax portal.
Statutorily, the filing of annual tax returns by companies expires on January 31st of each fiscal year and attracts stiff penalties for defaulters.
Mr Subair, who advised taxpayers to take advantage of this extension to perform their civic obligation, noted that the extension was aimed at providing taxpayers with additional time to ensure accurate and timely submission of their annual tax returns.
He appealed to employers of labour to take full advantage of the extension to perform their civic obligation to avoid penalties and other statutory sanctions outlined in section 81(3) of the Personal Income Tax (Amendment) Act 2011.
“We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, and this extension is intended to accommodate such instances.
“We implore all employers of labour within Lagos State, who are experiencing difficulties in the filing of their annual tax returns to call our customer service centre on 0700 CALL LIRS (0700 2255 5477) or visit the help desks at our various tax stations.
“It is important to adhere to the revised deadline to maintain compliance and avoid any potential penalties.
“For further details or inquiries, we encourage taxpayers to visit the agency’s website at www.lirs.gov.ng, follow LIRS on social media platforms, or contact us via email at [email protected],” he said.
Aduragbemi Omiyale 
Dipo Olowookere