How do I file Tax annual returns for my company in Nigeria for the first time?

This is an important question — and you’re not alone. Many business owners register a company and forget about Annual Returns.
Let me clarify properly because there are TWO different Annual Returns in Nigeria:
1. CAC Annual Returns (Company Status)
This is filed with the
Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)
This is NOT tax — it’s just to confirm your company is still active.
Why It’s Important
If you don’t file CAC annual returns:
Your company becomes inactive
CAC may strike off your company
You may pay penalties
When to File
Every year after your company anniversary
Example:
Company registered March 2022
First annual return due March 2023
2. Tax Annual Returns (FIRS / State Tax)
This is filed with:
Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) — for companies
State Internal Revenue Service — for PAYE (if you have employees)
This includes:
Company Income Tax (CIT)
Education Tax
VAT (if applicable)
Filed through:
TaxPro Max
Since You Haven’t Filed Since Registration — Here’s What To Do
Step 1 — Check Your Company Status
Go to CAC portal:
https://post.cac.gov.ng
Check:
Is your company still active?
How many years outstanding?
Step 2 — File CAC Annual Returns
You’ll need:
Company RC number
Director details
Company address
You can:
File yourself online
Use an agent (₦10k–₦25k typically depending on years owed)
Step 3 — File Tax Returns (Even If No Business Yet)
Very important:
Even if your company:
Didn’t operate
Made no profit
Was dormant
You must still file “Nil Returns”
This avoids penalties.
Estimated Penalties (Don’t Panic Yet)
Typical:
CAC Annual Return penalty: ₦5,000–₦10,000 per year
Tax penalty varies depending on company size
But many times:
Agents help reduce penalties
Or you can request waiver