The Tax Ombud/Chief Executive, Office of the Tax Ombud, Dr John Nwabueze, says the office is focused on promoting transparency and fairness in tax dispute resolution as part of ongoing fiscal reforms.
Speaking at the recent breakfast meeting with senior journalists in Lagos, Nwabueze urged the newsmen to educate taxpayers on the office’s mandate and complaint procedures, noting that it provides a channel for filing grievances and obtaining redress at no cost.
He disclosed that the Office of the Tax Ombud is set to unveil a website and a toll-free call centre to improve access to its services. Nwabueze said the office was established as “an independent and impartial body to protect taxpayer rights, resolve grievances, and promote fairness in tax administration.”
According to him, the initiative provides an avenue for Nigerians to engage more actively in economic development. He said the establishment of the office reflects efforts “to build a tax system that balances revenue generation with due process and fairness”, adding that it is expected to “encourage voluntary compliance.”
Nwabueze noted that an effective tax system must be fair, responsive, and just, explaining that the office serves as a bridge between taxpayers and revenue authorities by offering accessible dispute-resolution mechanisms.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for advancing tax reforms focused on fairness, inclusiveness, and sustainability, stating that the reforms aim to strengthen the relationship between taxpayers and the government.
The Tax Ombud also acknowledged the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, for his role in the reform process.
Responding to questions, Nwabueze said the office does not determine tax liability and has not replaced the courts or the Tax Appeal Tribunal, but is designed to ensure transparency and accountability in tax administration.
He added that beyond resolving disputes, the office identifies recurring issues in tax administration and recommends reforms to improve efficiency, fairness, and transparency.
