WorldStage– The Office of the Tax Ombud (OTO) of Nigeria says efforts are underway to address multiple taxation through collaboration with relevant revenue authorities.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of OTO, Dr John Nwabueze, said this during a breakfast meeting with financial correspondents in Abuja on Tuesday.
He said that the Joint Revenue Board was working to harmonise tax administration across federal, state and local government levels.
According to him, resolving multiple taxation is complex because numerous agencies are involved in revenue collection.
Nwabueze said that his office would continue to engage stakeholders to curb excessive tax-related practices and improve taxpayer protection.
He also expressed readiness to collaborate with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission on issues affecting consumers and taxation.
He noted that consumer-related matters often have links to tax administration and dispute resolution.
He reiterated his commitment to building a legacy of fairness, accountability and relief for taxpayers.
He urged journalists and the public to offer constructive criticism and suggestions to help strengthen the institution.
According to him, feedback is essential for improving service delivery and setting standards for future leadership.
The CEO urged financial correspondent to support efforts aimed at improving taxpayer awareness and confidence in Nigeria’s tax system.
He described the media as a critical partner in promoting public communication, citizen engagement and democratic accountability.
”The establishment of the OTO marks a major step toward strengthening transparency, accountability and taxpayer confidence,” he said.
He explained that the office provided an independent platform for addressing taxpayer complaints and protecting taxpayers’ rights.
He noted that modern tax systems globally relied on fairness, accessibility, effective dispute resolution and public trust.
He said the office was therefore created to provide accessible, timely and cost-effective mechanisms for resolving tax-related disputes.
”The office serves as a bridge between taxpayers and revenue authorities through mediation, conciliation and alternative dispute resolution,’’ he said.
He said that the approach would reduce prolonged litigation and improve institutional efficiency within the tax administration system.
Nwabueze disclosed that the office recently inaugurated its website, call centre and case management portal.
He said that the platforms would enable taxpayers’ access information, submit complaints and monitor case progress in real time.
He added that the office would encourage citizens to better understand the tax system and voluntarily fulfil their tax obligations.
He urged financial correspondent to educate the public on procedures for lodging complaints and resolving tax grievances.
Nwabueze expressed optimism that the collaboration with the media would strengthen public trust and enhance the effectiveness of tax reforms.
He reaffirmed the office’s commitment to fairness, transparency and improved taxpayer engagement across the country.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for championing reforms designed to make Nigeria’s tax system fairer, more inclusive and sustainable.
He also commended the Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, for providing leadership during the tax reform process.
