LAGOS — The Chief Executive Officer of the Office of the Tax Ombud, Dr John Nwabueze, says ongoing tax reforms are creating a faster, cost-free and accessible pathway for resolving disputes without resorting to litigation.
Speaking at an interactive session with business editors in Lagos, Nwabueze said the ombud office serves as an independent bridge between taxpayers and revenue authorities, easing pressure on courts and tribunals while boosting confidence in the tax system.
“Before now, dispute resolution processes were often lengthy and costly for taxpayers. The ombud office now serves as a first line of intervention to mediate and reconcile issues between taxpayers and revenue authorities,” he said.
He noted that while the law provides a 14 to 30-day resolution window, timelines often depend on the responsiveness of relevant agencies.
“When a complaint is received, we engage the concerned authority immediately and work within the statutory timeline as much as possible,” he said.
Nwabueze said the office offers a free platform for complaints and redress, with plans to expand nationwide through regional structures, a toll-free call centre and digital platforms, including a soon-to-be-launched website.
“The call centre will be toll-free, and taxpayers will be able to file complaints without incurring any charges. Even those without internet access can reach us through phone calls,” he said.
He emphasised that the office does not determine tax liabilities or replace courts or the Tax Appeal Tribunal but ensures fairness, transparency and accountability in tax administration.
“The whole idea is to resolve issues at this level before they get to more complex and expensive stages,” he said.
He added that the initiative is aimed at encouraging voluntary compliance and deepening public trust by making dispute resolution more efficient and accessible.
Nwabueze also said the office identifies systemic issues and recommends reforms to improve efficiency and transparency, reflecting Nigeria’s commitment to a modern, people-focused tax system.
He urged the media to raise awareness about the reforms and educate taxpayers on how to access free complaint resolution channels.
Assuring confidentiality in sensitive cases, he stressed that credibility would be built through consistent service delivery.
“Trust is not automatic; it comes from delivering results and providing relief to taxpayers over time,” he said.
