Nigeria Signs Data-Sharing Deals with 100+ Countries to Tax Remote Workers — Oyedele Reveals

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The Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, has disclosed that Nigeria has entered into agreements with more than 100 countries to collect data on Nigerians working remotely abroad, as part of efforts to strengthen tax compliance and remittance systems.

Speaking during a policy briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, Oyedele explained that the new framework will enable the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to access financial and employment records of Nigerians earning income from foreign sources — particularly those working for international companies remotely from within Nigeria.

“We have now established data-sharing agreements with over 100 countries. This means we can obtain reliable information about Nigerians working remotely or earning income overseas,” Oyedele said.

“The goal is not to punish anyone but to ensure fairness, transparency, and inclusivity in our tax system.”

According to him, the collaboration aligns with the OECD’s Common Reporting Standard (CRS), a global initiative that promotes automatic exchange of financial data between countries to curb tax evasion and illicit financial flows.

Oyedele further clarified that the government is developing a simplified tax compliance system for freelancers, digital entrepreneurs, and remote workers to ensure ease of payment and prevent double taxation.

“We understand the challenges faced by young Nigerians in the digital economy. That’s why our approach will be flexible and technology-driven,” he added.

The move comes amid Nigeria’s broader fiscal reform agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which seeks to expand the tax base, improve revenue collection, and reduce over-reliance on oil income.

Analysts say the initiative could significantly boost Nigeria’s non-oil revenue if properly implemented but caution that adequate safeguards must be in place to protect citizens’ data and prevent abuse.

The development marks a major shift in Nigeria’s approach to digital taxation, signaling the country’s readiness to align with global standards while tapping into the fast-growing remote work and gig economy sector.