Tax Ombud Pledges Fair Tax Administration as Asagba Honours Tinubu’s Appointees
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The Tax Ombud and Chief Executive Officer of the Office of the Tax Ombud, John Nwabueze, has pledged to advance fairness, accountability, and taxpayer protection in Nigeria’s tax administration system as part of efforts to improve the country’s tax-to-GDP ratio.
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‎Nwabueze made the commitment during a reception organised in his honour by the Asagba of Asaba, Epiphany Azinge, following his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Tax Ombud and Chief Executive of the Office of the Tax Ombud.
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‎Speaking at the event in Asaba, Nwabueze expressed appreciation to the people of Asaba for the honour bestowed on him, describing the recognition as both humbling and motivating.
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‎“To be celebrated by my own people fills me with profound gratitude and joy. It reminds me of my responsibilities to my community and strengthens my resolve to serve with integrity and dedication,” he said.
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‎The Tax Ombud paid tribute to the Asagba for recognising sons and daughters of Asaba who have distinguished themselves in public service, stressing that public appointments should be viewed as opportunities for service rather than personal achievement.
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‎“Our appointments are not for personal glory but for public duty. They are a call to represent Asaba well, to serve Nigeria, to serve humanity, and to ensure that government works for all Nigerians,” he stated.
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‎Nwabueze also commended President Tinubu for policies aimed at stabilising the economy and strengthening public institutions. He described the establishment of the Office of the Tax Ombud as a demonstration of the administration’s commitment to fairness, accountability, and efficiency in tax administration.
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‎According to him, the reception served as a charge from the Asagba and the people of Asaba to uphold the values and reputation of the community while serving the nation.
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‎He further appealed for the prayers, guidance, and continued support of the community as he assumes the responsibilities of his office.
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‎In his remarks, the Asagba of Asaba commended President Tinubu for appointing sons of Asaba to head key federal government institutions and agencies, noting that the appointments reflected confidence in their competence and capacity to serve.
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‎The monarch also assured the President of the continued support of the people of Asaba for his administration.
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‎Explaining the rationale behind the reception, Azinge said the civic gathering was designed to celebrate excellence in public service while promoting unity, peace, and prosperity within the Asaba community.
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‎Other distinguished Asaba sons honoured at the event included Kene Omo, Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, and Chinedu Owunze, a Permanent Secretary in the Delta State Government.
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‎The reception attracted prominent members of the Asaba community, traditional leaders, public officials, and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the achievements of the honourees and encourage them in their respective assignments.