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From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
The Tax Ombud of Nigeria, Dr. John Nwabueze, has called on financial journalists to support ongoing efforts to reform the country’s tax system by educating the public on taxpayer rights, dispute resolution processes and the benefits of voluntary tax compliance.
Nwabueze made the appeal during a breakfast meeting with financial correspondents in Abuja on Tuesday, where he emphasised the critical role of the media in deepening public understanding of Nigeria’s evolving tax administration framework.
According to him, the media remains a vital partner in promoting public communication, citizen engagement, nation-building and democratic accountability, making it an important stakeholder in the success of the ongoing tax reforms.
“The pivotal role of the media in the ongoing tax reform cannot be overstated. I urge you to use your professional capacity as financial journalists to educate and inform the taxpaying public about the process of filing complaints or grievances on tax matters,” he said.
The Tax Ombud acknowledged the efforts of President Bola Tinubu in driving reforms aimed at the country’s tax system fairer, more inclusive and sustainable, while also commending the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, for providing leadership throughout the reform process.
Nwabueze noted that the establishment of the Office of the Tax Ombud under the new tax administration framework represents a significant step towards improving transparency, accountability and taxpayers’ confidence in the system.
He explained that the office was created to provide an independent platform through which taxpayers can seek redress, resolve disputes and have their concerns addressed in a timely and cost-effective manner.
“Our mandate is clear: to serve as a trusted bridge between taxpayers and revenue authorities through mediation, conciliation, stakeholder engagement and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms that reduce prolonged litigation and enhance institutional efficiency,” he said.
As part of efforts to improve accessibility and public engagement, the Tax Ombud disclosed that the office recently launched its website, call centre and case management portal, enabling individuals and businesses to access taxpayer information, submit complaints online or by phone and track the progress of their cases in real time.
He said the digital platforms were designed to simplify interactions between taxpayers and tax authorities while strengthening confidence in the dispute resolution process.
Nwabueze further stated that beyond resolving complaints, the office seeks to encourage citizens to better understand the tax system, fulfill their tax obligations and contribute to national development.
He expressed optimism that stronger collaboration between the Office of the Tax Ombud and the media would enhance public awareness of available taxpayer support mechanisms and foster greater trust in Nigeria’s tax administration system.
The Office of the Tax Ombud was established as part of broader efforts to strengthen fairness, accessibility and accountability within Nigeria’s tax framework while promoting voluntary compliance and reducing disputes between taxpayers and revenue authorities.
