Bank To Restrict Accounts Without Two Requirements.

Fidelity Bank Plc has announced that it will begin restricting customer accounts that are not linked to either a Tax Identification Number or a National Identity Number from January 1, 2026.

The bank communicated this development to its customers through a notice issued on Monday, December 15, 2025.

According to Fidelity Bank, the move is in compliance with the Nigerian Tax Administration Act 2025, which requires all bank accounts in the country to be connected to a valid tax identification number.

Customers who do not have a tax ID are expected to link their accounts using their National Identity Number as an alternative.

The bank warned that accounts lacking both a tax ID and a NIN may be prevented from carrying out transactions once the new rule takes effect.

Fidelity Bank advised customers to update their records well ahead of the deadline to avoid any disruption to their banking activities.

It stated that linking the appropriate identification details would guarantee continued access to banking services after the policy becomes effective.

The decision follows the Federal Government’s plan to strengthen tax enforcement within Nigeria’s banking system.

Beginning in 2026, banks will be required to demand tax identification numbers from individuals who earn income and operate bank accounts.

The Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, recently confirmed the policy, explaining that it applies to individuals engaged in business, trade, or other income-generating activities.

He added that although a similar requirement existed under the 2020 Finance Act, enforcement was largely ineffective.

According to him, the Nigerian Tax Administration Act now provides the legal backing needed for banks to fully enforce the requirement from 2026.