Lagos: The Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) says it is stepping up efforts to tackle multiple taxation and other systemic challenges undermining confidence in Nigeria’s tax administration. The Tax Ombud and Chief Executive Officer of the office, Dr. John Nwabueze, disclosed this at the third-quarter Breakfast Meeting with newsmen in Lagos on Friday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Nwabueze said the office was strengthening its mediation and complaint-resolution mechanisms to ensure taxpayers obtained timely redress from revenue authorities. He said the office had received more than 20 genuine complaints within three months, with most involving state revenue services. Eight of the complaints have been successfully resolved within the statutory 14-day resolution period, with an additional seven days allowed where necessary.
Nwabueze also noted that the office had expanded its capacity to handle complex tax disputes by strengthening its team of accountants and legal experts. This move aims to enable the office to respond effectively to emerging tax issues, including possible disputes arising from digital asset taxation.
To improve access to its services, Nwabueze announced the launch of a digital complaints portal, case management system, toll-free call center, and SMS callback service. These initiatives have made it easier for individuals and businesses to lodge complaints and track their resolution. Plans are also underway to establish offices across the six geopolitical zones to bring the office’s services closer to taxpayers, particularly those at the grassroots.
Addressing the issue of multiple taxation, Nwabueze described it as an endemic challenge requiring stronger collaboration among the Federal Government, states, and local governments. He emphasized the need for engagement with relevant stakeholders, including the Joint Revenue Board, state governments, and local government authorities, to foster sustainable solutions.
The Tax Ombud has intensified engagements with professional bodies, the media, revenue authorities, and other stakeholders to promote a fairer tax system. Nwabueze also announced plans for a nationwide public sensitization campaign to educate taxpayers on their rights and available channels for seeking redress.
Nwabueze commended President Bola Tinubu for establishing an independent tax ombudsman institution, noting that it would help strengthen voluntary tax compliance and build public confidence in tax administration. He identified public awareness as one of the major challenges facing the office and urged the media to help deepen awareness of its services.
The core mandate of the Office, Nwabueze reiterated, was to provide impartial mediation and promote fairness, accountability, and justice in dealings between taxpayers and revenue authorities.