Lawyers Rally Support for Ombud’s Drive to Increase Tax Compliance

Nigerian lawyers have affirmed the critical role of taxation in generating government revenue for infrastructure development and social services. They are lending their support to the voluntary tax compliance drive spearheaded by the Office of the Tax Ombud.

“

Alleviate the burden of administrative and procedural issues for taxpayers, helping to foster trust between citizens and tax authorities.

This stance was a central theme during a panel discussion titled “Pay Now, Prosper Later” at the 66th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The discussion featured the Tax Ombud/Chief Executive, Dr. John Nwabueze, alongside other legal experts, including Ahmed Raji, SAN. They stressed the importance of building taxpayer trust in tax authorities to encourage voluntary compliance and increase national tax revenue.

Dr. Nwabueze assured the lawyers of his office's dedication to providing an independent and impartial platform for taxpayers to address and resolve tax-related complaints promptly and equitably. He believes the Office of the Tax Ombud will significantly help bridge the gap between taxpayers and tax administration, making the tax system more accessible and trustworthy. The office aims to ensure tax grievances are handled openly and accountably, thereby strengthening Nigeria's tax system.

“

It is our belief that the Office will contribute significantly towards bridging the gap between taxpayers and tax administration, making the tax system more accessible and trusted. We strive to ensure that tax grievances are resolved in an open and accountable manner, ultimately strengthening Nigeria’s tax system.

Since opening in January, the Tax Ombud's office has received 22 complaints, successfully resolving 14 of them. Continuous efforts are being made in stakeholder engagement and public awareness to broaden access to the office's services. While acknowledging that the office is non-judicial, Nwabueze highlighted its function as a crucial mechanism for early dispute resolution, potentially easing the burden on courts and other tax adjudication bodies. The office remains confident in its growing role in fostering a fairer, more transparent, and trusted tax environment in Nigeria.

“

Since opening its doors to the public in January, the Office has already received 22 complaints, with 14 resolved efficiently. Continuous efforts in stakeholder engagement and public awareness are underway to ensure broader access to the Office’s services.