Tax Ombud Dr Nwabueze Addresses Tax Reforms in Abuja

Dr John Nwabueze, the Chief Executive of the Office of the Tax Ombud, cautioned against arbitrary tax assessments, multiple levies, and inconsistent enforcement, which could undermine public confidence in Nigeria's tax reforms. Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement on Friday at the Ladi Kwali Conference Centre in Abuja, he stressed the importance of fairness and transparency for successful tax reforms that began on January 1, 2026.

Nwabueze highlighted that the reforms aim to simplify tax compliance, strengthen revenue mobilization, support small businesses, and improve accountability. He noted that the quality of legislation must be matched by fair implementation.

The Office of the Tax Ombud, established under the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act 2025, will provide a channel for resolving complaints and improving tax administration. Nwabueze outlined five guiding principles for the office's operations and mentioned the development of a Taxpayer Charter in multiple languages to clarify taxpayers' rights and responsibilities.

Concerns about multiple levies and unauthorized revenue collection were also raised by Onya Ojiji, represented by Faruk Baffa.