The Office of the Tax Ombud has unveiled its mandate to serve as a neutral platform for resolving disputes between taxpayers and revenue authorities, prioritising dialogue, mediation, and fairness over lengthy court battles.
Chief Executive of the Office, Dr. John Nwabueze, disclosed this during the 159th meeting of the Joint Revenue Board and a breakfast session with Business Editors in Lagos. He highlighted the agency’s strategic role in Nigeria’s ongoing tax reforms.
According to him, the newly established office is designed to safeguard taxpayer rights, promote accountability, and build confidence in the country’s tax administration system.
A statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary, Chukwudi Achife, explained that the Ombud office will receive and investigate complaints, working with relevant authorities to resolve disputes through mediation and conciliation.
“These processes are faster, more affordable, and less confrontational than going through the courts,” Nwabueze noted.
He clarified that the office would not determine tax liabilities or replace existing institutions such as courts or the Tax Appeal Tribunal. Instead, it will ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability in tax administration.
Beyond resolving individual complaints, the office will also identify systemic issues and recommend reforms to enhance efficiency and transparency in revenue collection.
Nwabueze described the timing of the initiative as critical, coming amid sweeping fiscal reforms under the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He noted that the Ombud would help reduce tensions arising from new tax policies by fostering trust between taxpayers and authorities.
“The goal is to ensure compliance is driven by trust and understanding, not fear or coercion,” he said.
He added that improved trust would encourage voluntary compliance, expand the tax base, and boost government revenue.
The Tax Ombud initiative, he said, reflects a broader push toward a modern, people-focused tax system that balances revenue generation with justice and due process.
Nwabueze also called for stronger collaboration among federal and state revenue agencies, stressing that effective tax administration depends on coordinated efforts across all stakeholders.
He urged tax authorities to involve the Ombud office in policy discussions and appealed to journalists to help educate Nigerians on how to seek redress on tax-related issues at no cost.
The office is currently finalising plans to launch a website and toll-free call centre to improve accessibility nationwide.
Commending the administration’s reform agenda, Nwabueze also acknowledged the role of Taiwo Oyedele in driving fiscal policy changes.
He concluded that a fair and transparent tax system is essential for public trust, economic growth, and effective governance, adding that ongoing reforms signal a renewed social contract between the government and taxpayers.