The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has extended the deadline for filing annual tax returns once again.
The new deadline is now set for April 21, 2026, giving taxpayers extra time to comply. This latest move has caught many by surprise, especially after an earlier extension had already been granted.
The LIRS tax filing deadline extension comes at a time when many residents were racing to meet the previous deadline.
However, officials say the decision was necessary due to a sharp increase in activity on the agency’s online platform.
Meanwhile, taxpayers are being urged to take advantage of this final window. Authorities have stressed that this extension should not be taken lightly, as compliance remains a legal obligation.
In a statement released on Saturday, the agency explained the reason behind the decision. It stated that:
“The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) wishes to express its sincere appreciation to esteemed taxpayers for their continued compliance and commitment to the filing of their individual annual income tax returns.”
Moreover, the agency highlighted the pressure on its system, adding:
“Following the earlier extension granted to 14 April, 2026, the Agency has observed a significant increase in traffic on its eTax platform as more taxpayers endeavour to meet the filing deadline.”
Furthermore, the statement confirmed the new deadline, noting:
“In view of this development, and to ensure that all taxpayers are provided with adequate opportunity to complete their filings, LIRS hereby announces a further extension of the deadline, now set for 21 April, 2026.”
This marks the second extension in recent weeks. Initially, taxpayers were asked to file by March 31. However, the deadline was later moved to April 14. Consequently, the latest shift reflects ongoing challenges faced by users on the platform.
In addition, LIRS emphasized that the extension aims to improve convenience without affecting the accuracy of submissions. The agency noted that the high turnout shows growing awareness among taxpayers.
However, officials have warned that this is likely the final extension. Therefore, taxpayers are advised to act quickly and avoid last-minute delays.
The agency also reminded residents that all submissions must be completed online. It stated:
“Taxpayers are reminded that the filing of annual income tax returns remains a statutory obligation and are encouraged to take advantage of this final extension to fulfil their civic responsibility.”
Meanwhile, the Executive Chairman reiterated that only one platform is approved. He said:
“The executive chairman of LIRS, Subair, on Friday reiterated that all filings must be completed electronically via the LIRS eTax platform: https://etax.lirs.net, which remains the only approved channel for submission.”
