FG Launch Tax Ombud to Boost Public Trust in Tax System

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to building a transparent, accountable and citizen-focused tax administration system as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated this on Monday in Abuja during the unveiling of the official website and launch of the toll-free call centre of the Tax Ombud Office.

Describing the initiative as a major step forward in improving Nigeria’s tax administration system, the minister said the new platforms would strengthen public confidence and improve access to tax-related services and complaint resolution.

“This is a major milestone in strengthening public trust, improving accessibility, and promoting fairness in Nigeria’s tax administration system. Effective communication and citizen engagement remain central to the success of ongoing economic reforms such as this,” Idris said.

He noted that the Tinubu administration remains committed to implementing reforms aimed at boosting revenue generation, ensuring fiscal sustainability and accelerating national development.

“Under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government remains steadfast in its commitment to building a stronger, more resilient, and prosperous economy through bold and strategic reforms,” the minister stated.

According to Idris, taxation remains critical to national development because it provides government with resources needed to invest in infrastructure, healthcare, education, transportation and security.

He, however, stressed that tax administration must be built on transparency, fairness and public trust rather than enforcement alone.

“Tax administration cannot succeed on enforcement alone. It must be supported by public trust, transparency, fairness, and effective communication,” he said.

The minister explained that the Tax Ombud Office was created to serve as a bridge between taxpayers and tax authorities by providing Nigerians with a fair and professional complaint-resolution mechanism.

He also described the launch of the toll-free call centre and official website as important tools for removing communication barriers and improving public access to information and services.

“The launch of the Toll-Free Call Centre demonstrates a commitment to removing communication barriers and ensuring that Nigerians can easily seek information, make enquiries, and resolve complaints without unnecessary difficulties or financial burden,” Idris added.

The minister further emphasised the importance of civic education and public enlightenment in promoting voluntary tax compliance and responsible citizenship.

“Tax education is not just about revenue generation; it is about building a culture of national participation and shared responsibility,” he stated.

Idris also warned that misinformation and poor communication often undermine reform efforts and fuel public distrust, calling for stronger collaboration among government institutions, the media, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.

“Misinformation and inadequate communication often contribute to distrust and resistance to reforms. This underscores the importance of strategic media engagement and sustained public communication,” he said.

The minister pledged continued collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation and the Tax Ombud Office to educate Nigerians on tax reforms, taxpayers’ rights and available complaint-resolution mechanisms.

Also present at the event were the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele; the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Esther Walson-Jack; and the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Tax Ombud Office, John C. Nwabueze, alongside other senior government officials and stakeholders.