Lawyers Back Tax Ombud's Initiative for Compliance

At the 66th Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigerian lawyers expressed their support for the voluntary tax compliance drive led by the Office of the Tax Ombud. The panel discussion titled “Pay Now, Prosper Later” featured Dr. John Nwabueze, the Tax Ombud/Chief Executive, and legal expert Ahmed Raji, SAN.

They discussed the necessity of enhancing taxpayer trust in tax authorities to boost compliance and revenue. Dr. Nwabueze assured attendees of the Office's commitment to providing a fair platform for resolving tax complaints, stating that since its inception in January, the Office has received 22 complaints, resolving 14 efficiently.

He noted that the Office, while non-judicial, plays a vital role in early dispute resolution, potentially alleviating pressure on courts. The initiative aims to create a more accessible and trusted tax system in Nigeria, with ongoing efforts to raise public awareness.