Gov Sani backs Tax Ombud, seeks stronger revenue in Kaduna

Uba-Sani

Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has pledged his administration’s support for the Office of the Tax Ombud as part of efforts to strengthen tax administration, increase revenue mobilisation and protect taxpayers’ rights in the state.

Sani made the commitment on Tuesday when he received the Tax Ombud/Chief Executive, Dr John Nwabueze, who paid a courtesy visit to the Kaduna State Government House.

The governor said building a strong and sustainable tax system capable of generating sufficient revenue for development required close collaboration between federal and state institutions.

He described the Tax Ombud’s office as critical to building taxpayers’ confidence, particularly at the state level, stressing that a fair, efficient and transparent tax system was essential to Kaduna’s economic competitiveness and efforts to attract investment.

Sani also commended Nwabueze for engaging stakeholders and creating awareness about the free mediation and alternative dispute resolution services available to taxpayers through the Office of the Tax Ombud.

He said greater awareness of taxpayers’ rights and channels for resolving legitimate complaints would strengthen trust in the tax system and encourage voluntary compliance.

Earlier, Nwabueze assured the governor of the Ombud’s readiness to work with Kaduna State to improve confidence in tax administration and address legitimate grievances from taxpayers.

He explained that the office provides an independent avenue for taxpayers who believe they have been unfairly treated by tax and revenue authorities.

“Tax compliance and taxpayer rights must go hand in hand if we are to achieve the increased tax-to-GDP growth that Nigeria needs,” Nwabueze said.

He noted that the quality of tax administration at the state level directly affects how citizens perceive taxation and their willingness to meet their tax obligations.

Nwabueze described Kaduna as an important partner in the implementation of ongoing tax reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He urged state governments to work closely with the Joint Revenue Board and the Office of the Tax Ombud to build a tax system that generates revenue for development while protecting taxpayers.

“We believe that Kaduna State can serve as an important example of how efficient revenue administration can support economic growth while protecting taxpayers,” he said.

Nwabueze also sought the governor’s support for taxpayer education, voluntary compliance and constructive engagement among the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service, taxpayers and the Tax Ombud.

He said stronger collaboration would help create a more predictable tax environment, improve revenue performance and make Kaduna more attractive to businesses and investors.

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