Value Added Tax (VAT) is one of Nigeria’s most important consumption taxes, and every business involved in the supply of taxable goods or services must understand its registration requirements. For companies operating in import/export, wholesale distribution, manufacturing, FMCG, and cross-border trade, compliance is not optional—it’s a core part of operating legally and maintaining smooth business operations.

For many local and international businesses, navigating VAT registration with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) can be time-consuming and confusing. This is why more companies are relying on professional VAT registration services to streamline the process, reduce compliance risks, and avoid costly delays. Wigmore Trading can help.

Why VAT Registration Matters for Businesses in Nigeria

VAT registration is mandatory for any business generating taxable supplies in Nigeria, regardless of size or ownership. Whether you are a new startup, an established distributor, or a foreign company entering the Nigerian market, VAT compliance ensures:

• Legal operation under Nigerian tax law

• Smooth importation and exportation of goods

• Eligibility to issue VAT-compliant invoices

• Ability to claim input VAT refunds where applicable

• Avoidance of penalties, fines, or operational disruption

Many companies struggle because the VAT registration process requires proper documentation, tax identification numbers, and accurate business details. Missing even one step can result in delays or rejections.

This is why businesses prefer partnering with a specialist like Wigmore Trading, which understands the regulatory landscape and handles the process on their behalf.

The VAT Registration Process in Nigeria: What to Expect

Registering for VAT with the FIRS requires several steps that must be carried out correctly:

1. Obtaining a Tax Identification Number (TIN)

Every business must have a TIN before applying for VAT. For foreign companies, this step can be more complex, especially if they do not have physical operations in Nigeria.

2. Preparing Required Documentation

FIRS typically requires:

• Certificate of Incorporation

• Registered business address

  Bulk Buy, Big Savings - Start Today!

  Browse More

• Corporate account details

• Directors’ information

• Memorandum and Articles of Association (for companies)

Errors in documentation are one of the most common reasons applications are rejected.

3. Filing the VAT Registration Application

This process is done through FIRS channels. Businesses must submit accurate details about their operations, business structure, and taxable activities.

4. Receiving Confirmation and VAT Certificate

Once approved, the business receives a VAT registration certificate and can begin issuing VAT-compliant invoices to customers.

5. Filing Monthly VAT Returns

After registration, companies are required to file VAT returns every month—even if they had no taxable transactions. Failure to file attracts penalties.

Wigmore Trading supports clients through every step—from documentation to certificate issuance and monthly filings.

Why Businesses Choose Professional VAT Registration Services

VAT compliance errors can affect supply chains, delay shipments, and create unnecessary financial exposure. Professional VAT registration services provide:

Faster processing

Experienced consultants understand FIRS requirements and ensure documentation is accurate from the start.

Reduced risk of penalties

Mistakes in VAT submission or filing can lead to fines. Outsourcing reduces these risks.

Time and resource efficiency

Your team can focus on core business operations while an expert handles compliance work.

Better tax planning

Professionals identify VAT-related opportunities such as input VAT claims, exemptions, or industry-specific rules.

Wigmore Trading offers all these benefits through a streamlined, reliable process designed for local and international businesses.

How Wigmore Trading Supports VAT Registration in Nigeria

Wigmore Trading has more than a decade of experience supporting companies operating across Nigeria’s import/export, logistics, FMCG, retail, and manufacturing sectors. Our services include:

1. Full VAT Registration Support

We manage the end-to-end process—TIN setup, documentation, filing, and certificate acquisition.

2. VAT Advisory for International Businesses

Foreign companies looking to trade in Nigeria receive guidance on compliance, documentation, and local tax obligations.

3. Monthly VAT Filing Assistance

We ensure your returns are submitted accurately and on time to avoid penalties.

4. Compliance Monitoring

Our team tracks regulatory changes and ensures your business remains fully compliant.

5. Support for Distributors and Importers

VAT compliance is essential for clearing goods, issuing invoices, and managing retail networks. Wigmore Trading ensures your supply chain remains uninterrupted.

If you operate in wholesale, distribution, cross-border trade, or procurement, professional VAT support can be the difference between smooth operations and costly delays. Wigmore Trading can help.

Why Act Now?

VAT enforcement in Nigeria has tightened in recent years, with FIRS increasing monitoring and penalties for businesses not properly registered. Companies that act early protect themselves from:

• Unexpected fines

• Withheld payments from VAT-sensitive clients

• Delays in import/export activities

Whether you’re registering a new business or updating your compliance, now is the right time to act.

Contact Wigmore Trading today to streamline your VAT registration and stay fully compliant.