Navigating the New Tax Laws for Private Schools in Nigeria & The Digital Solution
Historically, many educational institutions in Nigeria operated under the assumption of tax exemption due to their "public character." However, recent amendments to the Finance Act (specifically affecting the Companies Income Tax Act) have clarified that schools operating as limited liability companies and generating profit are liable for tax. This marks a significant shift in the operational landscape, requiring private schools to treat tax compliance as a critical business function.
Company Income Tax
For Turnover > ₦100m
Company Income Tax
For Turnover ₦25m - ₦100m
Tertiary Education Tax
Of Assessable Profit
Profit-oriented schools must now account for multiple tax heads. While tuition fees generally remain exempt from VAT, the institution's profits are subject to Company Income Tax (CIT) and Tertiary Education Tax (TET). Additionally, schools act as agents for collecting Personal Income Tax (PAYE) from staff.
The chart illustrates the typical distribution of taxable profit liability for a standard medium-to-large private school under the new regime.
Without strategic financial planning, the introduction of full tax liability can drastically reduce retained earnings available for school development. This simulation compares the net profit of a school before strict enforcement versus the current reality.
Accurate segregation of taxable vs. exempt income streams.
Preparation of audited financial statements by professionals.
Submission of CIT and TET returns to FIRS (due 6 months after year-end).
Settlement of assessed tax liabilities to avoid penalties.
Managing these new requirements with spreadsheets is risky. School Finance Management Software automates the complexity. It ensures that every kobo of revenue is categorized correctly, PAYE is deducted accurately from salaries, and audit-ready reports are generated instantly.