Tax ombudsman launches website, toll-free line to ease tax dispute resolution

By ABUBAKAR YUNUS OJIMA-OJO

The office of the tax ombudsman says it has launched a digital case management system, an official website and a toll-free call centre to improve access to tax dispute resolution services.

John Nwabueze, the chief executive officer (CEO) of the tax ombudsman, spoke on Monday during the induction of the office’s pioneer staff.

He said the platforms would enable taxpayers to obtain information, lodge complaints free of charge and monitor the progress of their cases in real time.

Nwabueze said the initiative forms part of efforts to make tax dispute resolution more accessible while strengthening public confidence in the country’s tax administration.

“The office recently unveiled its official website and launched a toll-free call centre and a digital case management system, all of which are operated by competent personnel,” he said.

“These platforms enable taxpayers to obtain information, lodge complaints online or via telephone at no cost, and monitor the progress of their cases in real time.”

The tax ombud urged the pioneer staff to uphold integrity, professionalism and quality service delivery, noting that effective tax dispute resolution would promote voluntary tax compliance and reduce friction between taxpayers and revenue authorities.

Nwabueze said the office would continue to engage stakeholders across the country to improve awareness of taxpayers’ rights and the available channels for resolving tax disputes.

He added that the office of the tax ombud is one of the institutional reforms introduced under the federal government’s tax reform agenda, with a mandate to build a fair, efficient and citizen-centred tax administration system.

Nwabueze also assured members of staff of continuous training opportunities, a conducive work environment and improved conditions of service to enable them discharge their responsibilities effectively.