Nigeria Launches Real-Time E-Invoicing System
via MBS Platform

Starting July 2025, Nigeria’s Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) will begin rolling out a real-time e-invoicing mandate through the Merchant Buyer Solution (MBS) platform. The pilot phase targets large taxpayers with annual turnover above ₦5 billion and will expand to smaller businesses in phases.

The system applies real-time validation, cryptographic stamping, and follows a four-corner model similar to Peppol, ensuring secure, structured XML-based invoice exchange. All VAT-liable B2B, B2G, and B2C transactions are covered. B2B/B2G invoices must be pre-cleared with an Invoice Reference Number (IRN), while B2C invoices must be reported within 24 hours.

Penalties apply for non-compliance, including financial fines and loss of input VAT credit. Businesses are advised to assess ERP readiness, integrate with FIRS APIs, and prepare teams for implementation.