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FIRS Launches USSD Code *829# For Taxpayers’ Satisfaction
In a bid to enhance ease of doing business, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), on Wednesday, launched an Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) Code *829# specifically targetted at improving taxpayers’ satisfaction.
FIRS chairman, Zacch Adedeji, launched the code at the Revenue House in Abuja as part of activities making this year’s Customer Service Week which has the theme Above and Beyond.
The initiative makes Nigeria the sixth African country to deploy USSD code for simplifying tax payment processes. .
A statement by Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS chairman said taxpayers on any mobile telecommunication network in the country can now get across to FIRS real-time on issues relating to retrieval of Taxpayers Identification Number (TIN), verification of Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC), information on tax types and rates, locate the nearest FIRS office, and as well as get answers to general tax-related inquiries.
Speaking at the ceremony, Adedeji said the instant messaging protocol demonstrated further commitment of the agency to simplifying tax administration and ensuring that “every taxpayer—whether in bustling cities or remote areas—can engage with FIRS seamlessly.”
He called on taxpayers to enjoy the benefits that the USSD code offers and utilise the code for all their enquiries.
“With the *829# USSD code, taxpayers now have the power to: retrieve their Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), verify their Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC), access information on tax types and rates, locate the nearest FIRS office, and get answers to general tax-related inquiries.
“Without the need for internet access, all of these services are now available with a simple mobile phone. This technological leap reflects our dedication to creating a tax system that is efficient, transparent, and responsive to the needs of taxpayers”, he said.
The agency also launched Customer Centricity Guide, a booklet containing policies, processes and procedures to ensure that FIRS keeps the taxpayers in their rightful position as ‘kings.’
“Equally important is the unveiling of the Customer Centricity Guide. This guide embodies our commitment to putting taxpayers at the centre of our service delivery.
“It outlines the principles and values that will drive our interactions with taxpayers by ensuring that every engagement is defined by respect, professionalism, and efficiency.
“The guide serves as a reminder to us all that the taxpayer is not just a client, but a valued partner in nation-building. Through the combination of the *829# USSD code and the Customer Centricity Guide, we are reinforcing a culture of service excellence and making tax compliance not just a duty but an experience that fosters trust and voluntary participation.
“As we celebrate this achievement, I encourage everyone to make full use of the *829# service and embrace the Customer Centricity Guide. Your feedback will be crucial as we continue to enhance these services and meet the evolving needs of our taxpayers,” he said.
The national coordinator of Servicom, Nnenna Akajemeli, praised the effort of the FIRS towards taxpayers’ satisfaction, noting that the efforts are evident.
“There are many things to congratulate the FIRS on. One is the launch of the USSD code *829# and the customer centricity guide. These initiatives which are simplifying tax and ensuring that citizens and taxpayers are delighted at the quality of service you render,” she said.
FIRS Director, Taxpayers’ Service Department, Loveth Onanuga noted the agency recognized that customer-centricity means more than just satisfying customers’ basic wants, but also going “above and beyond what customers anticipate and astonishing them with great service” in line with the theme of the week.

CAPTIONS USSD 1-3
L-R, Coordinating Director, People Services Group, Anthony Okonkwo; Coordinating Director, Services Support Group, M.L Abubakar; Coordinating Director, Compliance and Enforcement Group, Matthew Gbonjubola; Coordinating Director, Medium Taxpayers’ Group, Dick Irri; Chief of Staff, Tayo Koleosho; chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji; Coordinating Director, Corporate Services Group, Mrs Bolaji Akintola; Coordinating Director, Special Duties, Tamadi Shettima; Coordinating Director, Large Tax Group, Ms Aminat Ado during the unveiling of the agency’s USSD code *829# at the FIRS headquarters in Abuja, on Wednesday.
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Glo’s New TV Commercials Focus On Power Of Seamless Connection, Infinite Possibilities
Two new TV commercials from Globacom recently released, have focused on the important message of seamless and reliable connection, propping up recent network improvement efforts by the company.
The two commercials, “Road Trip” and “Department of Imagination”, both reinforce the company’s commitment to seamless connectivity for all classes of its customers.
The two commercials, apart from being highly entertaining, also highlight how Glo fits into everyone’s everyday life, while also focusing on a more connected and exciting future for all.
“Road Trip” brings a warm and familiar story to life. It follows a family journey filled with laughter and real-life moments. When Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi struggles with poor signal, the difference becomes clear after switching to Glo. From that moment, everything changes as downloads, navigation, and entertainment become seamless and easy.
At the heart of the Road Trip experience is easy access to data, with the simple message: by dialling *312#, users can easily get a plan and stay connected, keeping everything running smoothly on the go.
The commercial also features Bolaji Ogunmola and other cast members who add energy and humour to the story. As the journey continues, Glo proves to be a reliable partner, keeping everyone connected and entertained along the way.
In contrast, “Department of Imagination” takes viewers into a futuristic world where technology makes life easier and more exciting. Led by Richard Mofe-Damijo as the Professor, the story explores how ideas can grow into powerful experiences.
Experiences in this world feel smarter and more alive, from real time gaming to improved food processes shown by Hilda Baci, along with a creative tech presence brought to life by Bamike Adenibuyan(Bam-Bam). Each scene highlights how Glo is shaping a future where possibilities are endless.
From everyday moments on the road to bold ideas of tomorrow, Globacom continues to deliver strong, reliable service while looking ahead with confidence. The message in the two commercials is clear. The future is already here, and it is Glo.
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Opposition Leaders Reject Alleged Plan To Make Tinubu Sole 2027 Candidate
Opposition leaders in Nigeria have issued a communique vowing to resist any attempts by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to make President Bola Tinubu the sole candidate for the 2027 general elections.
This statement followed a National Summit of opposition parties held in Ibadan, Oyo State, where several key political figures including Atiku Abubakar (PDP), Peter Obi (LP), and Rabiu Kwankwaso (NNPP) gathered to discuss a united front.
The opposition political figures made this declaration via a communique issued at the end of a meeting christened “National Summit of Opposition Political Party Leaders”.
The meeting was hosted by governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State in Ibadan on Saturday.
It was attended by former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President, David Mark, former Minister of Information, Professor Jerry Gana, Aisha Yesufu, Professor Pat Utomi and a former Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung.
Others are former governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, former governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, former governor of Kano, Rabiu Kwankwanso, former governor of Kwara State, Abdulfatai Ahmed, former governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amechi, former governor of Niger State, Babangida Aliyu among others.
The leaders of the opposition political parties in the communique vowed to resist all machinations by the ruling All Progressives Congress to foist a one-party State on Nigeria.
They vowed to resist all attempts to make Tinubu the sole presidential candidate in the 2027 general elections.
The opposition political figures also disclosed that the Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission INEC, Professor Joash Amupitan should not be allowed to conduct the forthcoming general elections in 2027.
The communique partly read, “That we shall resist all machinations by the APC to foist a one-party State on Nigeria and fight for the survival of multi-party democracy in our country.
“That despite the onslaughts and maneuverings of the ruling party, the APC to impose President Bola Tinubu as the sole Presidential candidate in 2027; we shall field candidates and contest the 2027 Presidential and other elections.
“That we shall work towards fielding one Presidential Candidate for the 2027 elections, which shall be agreed and supported by all participating opposition parties to rescue our nation and her long suffering masses”.
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Nigerian Army Recovers Remains Of Personnel Murdered During Wedding Trip
The Nigerian Army said troops from the 82 Division has recovered the suspected remains of a soldier couple, Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew, who were murdered in May 2022.
In a statement shared on its official X handle, the Army said the troops acted on credible intelligence to carry out the operations on 24 April 2026 along the Ubaha Orsu axis of Orsu Local Government Area.
The operation was part of a strategic clearance and search mission aimed at dismantling the IPOB/ESN hideout in the region and locating the remains of two Nigerian Army personnel, Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Private Gloria Mathew, who were brutally abducted and murdered by terrorists in May 2022 while on their way to their traditional wedding.
Upon receiving credible intelligence, the army reported that its troops advanced towards a suspected IPOB/ESN hideout, where they encountered heavy fire from armed criminals.
The statement said the troops engaged the terrorists decisively, successfully repelling multiple ambushes and forcing the criminals to retreat in chaos.
“The encounter further revealed the desperation and criminal nature of the group, which continues to target innocent citizens and security personnel alike,” the statement said.
After successfully clearing the camp, the Nigerian Army said the troops conducted a comprehensive search of the area, leading to the discovery of shallow graves believed to contain the remains of the slain personnel.
“The graves were carefully excavated, and the suspected remains were recovered,” the statement said.
The Nigerian Army confirmed that the recovered remains have been secured for detailed forensic analysis, including DNA testing, to definitively establish their identities.
“Efforts are also ongoing to liaise with the families of the fallen personnel to ensure proper identification and facilitate befitting burial arrangements in honour of their sacrifice.
“This operation not only underscores the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to ensuring justice for fallen heroes but also highlights the continued degradation of IPOB/ESN criminal networks and infrastructure across the South East.
“The discovery of shallow graves within their camp further exposes the group’s heinous atrocities and disregard for human life.”
The Nigerian Army reassured the general public that ongoing operations will continue until all criminal elements are neutralised and lasting peace is restored across the region.
“We appreciate the law-abiding citizens for the information and urge you remain vigilant and continue to support security agencies with timely and credible information,” it added.
