By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Federal Government on Monday unveiled the official website and toll-free call centre of the Tax Ombud Office in Abuja to improve transparency, strengthen taxpayer confidence, and simplify complaint resolution in Nigeria’s tax administration system. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced the initiative during the launch event. He explained that the move supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda by promoting accountability, accessibility, and fairness in tax administration.
Government Targets Transparent and Citizen-Focused Tax Administration
Mohammed Idris described the unveiling as a major milestone in strengthening public trust in Nigeria’s tax system. He said effective communication and citizen engagement remain vital to the success of ongoing economic reforms.
According to the minister, the Tinubu administration continues to implement strategic reforms that will improve revenue generation, ensure fiscal sustainability, and accelerate national development.
He noted that taxation remains critical to funding infrastructure, healthcare, education, transportation, and national security. However, he stressed that tax administration must rely on trust and fairness, not enforcement alone.
“Tax administration cannot succeed on enforcement alone. It must be supported by public trust, transparency, fairness, and effective communication,” Idris stated.
Tax Ombud Office to Bridge Gap Between Taxpayers and Authorities
The minister explained that the Tax Ombud Office will serve as a bridge between taxpayers and tax authorities. The office will provide Nigerians with a professional platform for resolving tax-related complaints.
Furthermore, Idris praised the launch of the toll-free call centre and official website. He said both platforms would remove communication barriers and improve public access to tax information and services.
“The launch of the Toll-Free Call Centre demonstrates a commitment to removing communication barriers,” he said.
Government Pushes Tax Education and Public Awareness
The Information Minister also highlighted the importance of civic education in promoting voluntary tax compliance. He explained that tax education encourages responsible citizenship and national participation.
In addition, Idris warned that misinformation and poor communication often weaken reform efforts and increase public distrust. Therefore, he called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, media organisations, and civil society groups.
“Misinformation and inadequate communication often contribute to distrust and resistance to reforms,” he stated.
Ministry Pledges Support for Tax Reform Awareness
Idris reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation to supporting nationwide sensitisation campaigns on tax reforms.
He pledged continued collaboration with the Tax Ombud Office and other institutions to educate Nigerians about taxpayers’ rights and complaint-resolution channels.
The minister added that clear communication would help citizens understand how taxation supports the Renewed Hope Agenda and national development.
Senior Government Officials Attend Launch Event
Several top government officials attended the event. They included 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 of the Tax Ombud Office, John C. Nwabueze.
