Tax Ombud seeks collaboration with revenue agencies

John Nwabueze, the Tax Ombud and Chief Executive of the Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO), has signaled a strong commitment to fostering collaboration with tax and revenue agencies across Nigeria. Speaking at the 159th meeting of the Joint Revenue Board in Lagos, Nwabueze emphasized the OTO's dedication to improving operational efficiency and strengthening the trust between taxpayers and revenue authorities, particularly in light of ongoing tax reforms.

The Office of the Tax Ombud, established as an independent and impartial institution, plays a vital role in protecting taxpayers' rights and promoting administrative justice. Nwabueze articulated that the OTO serves as a crucial bridge, mediating and conciliating disputes between taxpayers and revenue bodies. This approach offers a more accessible, cost-effective, and less adversarial path to resolution compared to traditional litigation, thereby enhancing the overall fairness and transparency of the tax system.

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The Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) is a bold and progressive effort to harmonise revenue systems, expand the tax base and improve compliance.

Nwabueze stressed that the OTO's functions extend beyond dispute resolution. The office actively identifies recurring issues in tax administration and proposes reforms to improve efficiency and fairness. By providing an independent platform for grievance redressal, the OTO aims to build public trust, ensuring that compliance with tax laws is driven by understanding and confidence rather than coercion. This collaborative spirit and focus on systemic improvement are essential for navigating the complexities of Nigeria's evolving tax landscape and ensuring a robust revenue administration.

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The OTO helps to ensure that compliance with the new tax laws is driven not by fear or coercion, but by trust and understanding.