Tax Ombudsman to Begin Operations January 1

The office of the tax ombud of Nigeria will commence full operations on January 1, 2026.

President Bola Tinubu recently appointed John Nwabueze as the tax ombudsman, in line with the provisions of the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (establishment) Act, 2025.

Announcing the appointment, Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, said the appointment aligns with Tinubu’s commitment to implementing far-reaching and sustainable reforms in Nigeria’s tax and revenue administration framework.

In a statement on Monday signed by Chudi Achife, chief press secretary to the tax ombud, Nwabueze said the establishment of the office demonstrates the president’s commitment to amicable and seamless tax dispute resolution, as well as the protection of taxpayers’ rights.

He said the office would serve as a safeguard against arbitrary actions by tax and revenue authorities.

Nwabueze also commended Tinubu’s economic policies, saying they are helping to stabilise the economy and steer the country toward sustainable prosperity.

The CEO cited improvements such as easing inflation, a more stable exchange rate, growing external reserves, improved investor confidence, a bullish market, and an export surplus.

“Establishing the office of the tax ombud shows President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ingenuity and foresight in reforming tax administration to ensure fairness, accountability, and efficiency,” he said.

Nwabueze also commended Wale Edun, minister of finance and coordinating minister of the economy, for his role in implementing the renewed hope agenda across sectors of the economy.

The tax ombudsman said the office has lined up activities, including press briefings and stakeholder engagement sessions, to inform Nigerians about its vision, and plans for a fair, transparent, and efficient tax justice system.