Tax Ombud Seeks Media Partnership to Strengthen Taxpayer Protection, Accountability
The Tax Ombud and Chief Executive of the Office of the Tax Ombud, John Nwabueze, has called on the Nigerian media to play a central role in advancing taxpayer education, accountability, and democratic orientation as part of ongoing fiscal reforms.
Speaking at a breakfast meeting with Finance Correspondents Association of Nigeria (FICAN) on Tuesday, Nwabueze reaffirmed his office’s mandate to protect taxpayers’ rights, resolve disputes, and promote fairness in tax administration.
“As an independent and impartial institution, we provide taxpayers with accessible, timely, and cost-effective mechanisms for addressing complaints, resolving disputes, and promoting voluntary compliance,” he said.
He explained that the newly established office serves as a trusted bridge between taxpayers and revenue authorities, offering mediation, conciliation, and alternative dispute resolution to reduce litigation burdens.
The case management portal and call centre unveiled in April, he noted, now allow individuals and businesses to lodge complaints online or by phone and track progress in real time.
Nwabueze urged journalists to use their professional capacity to educate the public on tax processes and compliance.
“The role of media in the ongoing tax reform cannot be overstated. I invite you to be partners in this national assignment. By helping citizens understand the tax system, you strengthen compliance and build public confidence,” he said.
He also reflected on his personal journey, noting his decades of professional practice abroad before returning to Nigeria to lead the Ombud office.
“It is a privilege to serve in this mandate. Our appointments are not for personal glory but for public duty — to ensure government works for all Nigerians,” he added.
The Ombud concluded by appealing for collaboration, prayers, and encouragement from stakeholders, stressing that taxpayer protection and accountability are essential to increasing Nigeria’s tax-to-GDP ratio and sustaining national development.