The Federal Government of Nigeria has appointed Dr. John Nwabueze as the country’s first Tax Ombudsman, in line with the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2025. This move is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to implement comprehensive reforms in the tax and revenue administration framework.
According to a statement by Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Dr. Nwabueze’s appointment is a significant step towards enhancing transparency and accountability within the tax system. With extensive experience in both the public and private sectors, Dr. Nwabueze is well-equipped to handle the responsibilities of his new office. He has previously served as Managing Partner of a reputable tax advisory firm and Technical Adviser to the Joint Senate Committees on the Federal Capital Territory and Finance of the National Assembly.
Dr. Nwabueze holds a Doctor of Business Administration (Finance) from Walden University, Minneapolis, USA, and has also obtained degrees from Strayer University, Washington, D.C., and the University of Jos, Nigeria. His expertise in finance and taxation is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the country’s tax administration.
The Office of the Tax Ombudsman has been established to provide a structured mechanism for resolving disputes between taxpayers and revenue authorities. The office will receive, review, and resolve complaints related to taxes, levies, and customs duties, among other issues. Dr. Nwabueze’s primary responsibility will be to ensure that these disputes are managed efficiently and impartially, safeguarding the rights of taxpayers against arbitrary or abusive exercise of authority by tax officials.
President Tinubu has expressed confidence in Dr. Nwabueze’s ability to discharge his duties with integrity and professionalism. The appointment of a Tax Ombudsman is a significant development in Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its tax administration and promote a more transparent and accountable system. As the country continues to implement reforms in its revenue administration framework, the role of the Tax Ombudsman is expected to be crucial in enhancing confidence in tax administration and promoting a fair and impartial resolution of disputes.