The Office of the Tax Ombud said it is strengthening its capacity to handle disputes arising from digital asset taxation as part of efforts to improve fairness and transparency in Nigeria’s tax system.

The Tax Ombud and Chief Executive of the Office of the Tax Ombud, John Nwabueze, disclosed this on Thursday at a media parley in Lagos, where he outlined the office’s achievements and future priorities.

According to him, the office has expanded the capacity of its accountants and legal experts to handle complex tax matters, including disputes involving digital assets, should such cases arise.

He also said the office plans to establish offices in all six geopolitical zones to improve taxpayers’ access to its services.

Mr Nwabueze said the Office of the Tax Ombud has enhanced access to its services through a digital complaints portal, a case management system, a toll-free call centre and SMS callback services, making it easier for individuals and businesses to lodge complaints and obtain timely resolutions.

According to him, the office received more than 20 ‘genuine’ complaints within its first three months of operation, most of them involving state revenue services.

“Within three months, the Office received over 20 genuine complaints, most of them involving state revenue services.

“Of these, eight have been successfully resolved, all within the statutory 14-day resolution period, with provision for an additional seven days where necessary,” Mr Nwabueze said.

The Tax Ombud said the office is also expanding engagement with professional bodies, the media, revenue authorities and other stakeholders, while preparing a nationwide public awareness campaign to address issues such as multiple taxation.

“The Office has expanded the capacity of its skilled accountants and legal experts to handle complex tax matters, including disputes relating to digital asset taxation, should such cases arise.

“We are also enhancing accessibility at the grassroots through plans to establish offices across all six geopolitical zones,” the tax ombud CEO said.

He further noted that multiple taxation, particularly at the state and local government levels, remains a major concern, adding that the federal government is working with relevant stakeholders, including the Joint Revenue Board, state governments and local government authorities, to develop lasting solutions.

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Mr Nwabueze said the Office of the Tax Ombud was established to provide impartial mediation between taxpayers and revenue authorities, promote voluntary tax compliance and strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s tax administration.

“Multiple taxation is an endemic issue that we are determined to address by engaging all relevant stakeholders, including the Joint Revenue Board, state governments, and local government authorities.

“Through collaboration and policy engagement, we are working towards sustainable solutions,” the Tax Ombud stated.

He called for support in terms of public awareness of its services, noting that many taxpayers are still unaware of their rights and the avenues available for resolving tax disputes.