The Office of the Tax Ombud has requested President Bola Tinubu’s approval to open six regional offices across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones. Since its establishment, the office has resolved around 82 per cent of taxpayer complaints.
This announcement was made by Tax Ombud and Chief Executive Dr John Nwabueze during a breakfast meeting with the Finance Correspondents Association of Nigeria in Abuja. He stated that the new offices aim to improve access to dispute resolution and enhance accountability in tax administration.
Pending presidential approval, the regional offices are set to begin operations before the end of 2026. Nwabueze expressed the office’s commitment to fostering trust in the tax system and ensuring that all Nigerians can voice their concerns.
He noted that the high complaint resolution rate reflects the office’s success in addressing disputes without resorting to lengthy litigation. The new offices will provide complaint resolution services closer to taxpayers, particularly those outside Abuja, improving the speed and efficiency of interventions.
Plans are underway to establish dedicated Tax Ombud desks within all 36 state tax authorities to facilitate real-time complaint handling and enhance communication between taxpayers and revenue agencies. The office is also streamlining its processes to improve responsiveness to complaints.
Collaboration with state governments and federal agencies has strengthened the office’s operations, with positive feedback received from state authorities. Nwabueze highlighted ongoing support from the National Assembly, reinforcing the office’s role as an impartial mediator in tax disputes.
To improve taxpayers’ understanding of their rights and the available complaint mechanisms, the office has intensified public awareness campaigns. This includes working with independent partners and utilising various communication platforms. Nwabueze reiterated that the office’s services are free and encouraged anyone facing issues with tax authorities to file complaints.
The Tax Ombud serves as an alternative to prolonged court proceedings, enabling impartial dispute resolution through constructive engagement between taxpayers and revenue authorities. Unresolved complaints can be referred through the appropriate channels for further consideration.
