At Smith and Partners LP, we understand that taxation is not just a legal obligation—it is a critical element in strategic planning for both businesses and individuals. Our Taxation Law practice offers comprehensive and innovative legal support across the full spectrum of Nigerian tax regimes, including personal income tax, company income tax, value-added tax (VAT), petroleum profits tax, capital gains tax, stamp duties, and custom duties, among others.

Our team is adept at navigating the complexities of Nigeria’s tax system, and we provide tailored legal guidance to clients across diverse sectors including banking, oil and gas, telecommunications, construction, fintech, entertainment, and manufacturing. We routinely advise on tax-efficient structuring of investments, cross-border transactions, and mergers and acquisitions.

We have successfully represented clients in tax audits and investigations initiated by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), State Internal Revenue Services (SIRS), and the Nigeria Customs Service. One of our Partners was a member of the legal team that advised a multinational telecom company on a ₦5.2 billion tax assessment dispute with the FIRS, resulting in a favorable settlement through mediation. Our lawyers have also led negotiations and appeals on behalf of several high-net-worth individuals and SMEs facing unjustified tax assessments.

We are currently advising a leading Nigerian fintech startup on its tax compliance framework in light of evolving regulatory expectations from the FIRS and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), including issues around transaction levies, withholding tax obligations, and digital service taxes.

In addition to representation, we assist clients in developing internal tax compliance protocols, training accounting teams, and preparing for audits. We have also conducted due diligence and risk assessments for local and international clients considering expansion or acquisition in Nigeria, with special focus on potential tax exposures and benefits.

Our Taxation Law team also collaborates with our Dispute Resolution team in contentious matters before the Tax Appeal Tribunal (TAT), High Courts, and appellate courts, ensuring that our clients are well-protected at all stages of tax litigation.

At Smith and Partners LP, we combine legal insight with commercial acumen to help our clients stay compliant while minimizing exposure to tax liabilities. Our goal is to safeguard your finances and help your operations thrive in a dynamic regulatory landscape.