Nigeria is set to inaugurate a major new institution aimed at ensuring fairness in the tax system. The Office of the Tax Ombud of Nigeria will officially commence full operations on January 1, 2026. This independent body pledges to uphold impartiality, protect taxpayer rights, and strengthen trust between citizens and revenue authorities.
Pre-Launch Activities and Core Mandate
According to a statement issued by Chudi Achife, the Chief Press Secretary to the Tax Ombud, a series of activities are planned ahead of the January start date. These include press briefings and stakeholder engagement sessions designed to introduce Nigerians to the office's vision for a fair, transparent, accountable, and efficient tax justice system.
The office, established by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is mandated to serve as an independent platform for resolving grievances within the tax system. Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, outlined its core functions. It will "receive, review and resolve complaints" related to taxes, levies, customs duties, excise matters, and other related issues in line with existing laws.
Powers and Pioneer Leadership
The Tax Ombud's office holds significant powers to aid taxpayers. It is empowered to institute legal proceedings on behalf of taxpayers at no cost to them. Additionally, it will provide information on the functions of tax authorities and promote awareness of taxpayers' rights and obligations nationwide.
President Tinubu recently appointed Dr. John Nwabueze as the pioneer Tax Ombud and Chief Executive Officer. Dr. Nwabueze brings over two decades of experience in tax administration and policy from both Nigeria and the United States. He described the creation of the office as a clear demonstration of President Tinubu's commitment to amicable tax dispute resolution and protecting taxpayers from arbitrary actions.
A Boost for Economic Confidence
Dr. Nwabueze also commended the President's economic policies, stating they are beginning to stabilise the economy. He noted positive indicators including a decline in inflation, greater exchange rate stability, growing foreign reserves, and increased investor confidence.
"Establishing the Office of the Tax Ombud underscores President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's ingenuity and foresight in reforming tax administration to promote fairness, accountability and efficiency," Nwabueze said. He also praised the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, for his role in implementing the administration's Renewed Hope Agenda across key sectors.
The launch of this office marks a pivotal step towards building a more just and trustworthy relationship between the Nigerian state and its taxpayers, with the promise of a structured mechanism for dispute resolution starting in the new year.
