Enugu to Host South-East HQ for Tax Ombud Office
Enugu State has been chosen as the South-East Zonal Headquarters of the Office of the Tax Ombud, a move expected to improve taxpayer support services and strengthen Nigeria’s tax-to-GDP ratio.
The announcement was made by John Nwabueze, Tax Ombud/Chief Executive, during a meeting with Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah at the Government House, Enugu, on Tuesday.
Nwabueze said Enugu’s role as a major industrial and commercial hub makes it a strategic location.
He noted that tax disputes, including multiple taxation, are common in vibrant economies, and the Ombud Office was created to provide transparent and impartial dispute resolution.
“While the payment of taxes remains an inalienable civic responsibility, taxpayers equally deserve to be treated fairly, respectfully and in accordance with the law,” he stated.
He explained that effective dispute resolution would encourage voluntary compliance, reduce friction between taxpayers and authorities, and build public trust in tax administration.
The Office of the Tax Ombud, established under the Joint Tax Board Act (2025), has also launched a website, toll-free call centre, and digital case management portal to allow taxpayers to lodge complaints and track cases in real time.
Governor Mbah welcomed the development, pledging facilities for the headquarters.
He said the initiative aligns with his administration’s goal of expanding Enugu’s economy from $4.4bn to $30bn in eight years, while blocking leakages and widening the tax net.
He praised President Tinubu’s tax reforms, noting that improved compliance and revenue generation are essential for funding education, healthcare, infrastructure, and other public services.