Nigeria's Tax Ombud to launch taxpayer rights and obligations bill

Nigeria's Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) is preparing to launch a Taxpayer's Bill of Rights and Obligations in the coming weeks. This initiative aims to deepen taxpayer awareness, foster fairness, and strengthen trust in the nation's tax administration system.

John Nwabueze, the Tax Ombud and Chief Executive Officer of OTO, announced the upcoming bill at a stakeholders' engagement in Abuja. He explained that the document will provide taxpayers with a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities. It will also outline the standards of fairness, transparency, and accountability they should expect from tax and revenue authorities. The bill will be accessible through the OTO's digital platforms and other public channels.

"We believe this will strengthen taxpayer awareness, encourage voluntary compliance, prevent disputes and build greater trust across the tax ecosystem," Nwabueze stated. He emphasized that a simplified and equitable tax system is crucial for building national consciousness and restoring public trust. The OTO's work extends beyond discussing taxation; it focuses on strengthening the relationship between taxpayers and the institutions managing public revenue.

Nwabueze also highlighted that the OTO has initiated a public awareness and stakeholder sensitization program to improve understanding of its mandate and services. He noted that Nigeria's OTO is the third such institution established in Africa and the ninth globally, positioning the country within a broader international trend in modern tax administration. The office is committed to ensuring a fair, transparent, and responsive tax system.

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We believe this will strengthen taxpayer awareness, encourage voluntary compliance, prevent disputes and build greater trust across the tax ecosystem.