The Federal Government has appointed Dr. John Nwabueze as Nigeria’s inaugural Tax Ombudsman, fulfilling President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to establishing an independent institution dedicated to protecting vulnerable taxpayers and promoting equitable tax practices, particularly for small businesses, the announcement was made by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, from the State House in Abuja.
The appointment, made under the provisions of the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2025, reflects President Tinubu’s ongoing reforms of the country’s tax and revenue framework. Dr. Nwabueze, from Oshimili South Local Government Area in Delta State, brings extensive experience from both public and private sectors. He previously served as Managing Partner of a leading tax advisory firm, Technical Adviser to the Joint Senate Committees on the Federal Capital Territory and Finance, and Technical Adviser to the Chief Economic Adviser under former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Dr. Nwabueze’s academic credentials are equally impressive. He holds a Doctor of Business Administration in Finance from Walden University, Minneapolis, USA; a Master of Science in Accounting from Strayer University, Washington, D.C.; and dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Accounting and Mathematics from the University of Jos, Nigeria.
President Tinubu congratulated the new appointee, expressing confidence in his ability to discharge his duties with integrity, diligence, and professionalism. “This appointment marks a pivotal moment in our drive for a fairer tax system,” the President said in an official statement.
The Office of the Tax Ombudsman, first announced during President Tinubu’s second-anniversary address, is designed as a watchdog and advocate for taxpayers. Its mandate is to address grievances, promote transparency, and simplify compliance for small enterprises without imposing undue burdens. As the President noted: “To promote fairness and accountability, we are establishing a Tax Ombudsman—an independent institution that will protect vulnerable taxpayers and ensure the system works for everyone, especially small businesses.”
Under Dr. Nwabueze’s leadership, the office will handle complaints related to taxes, levies, regulatory fees, customs duties, excise matters, and other revenue issues in accordance with the law. Cases will be addressed efficiently, impartially, and non-adversarially, safeguarding taxpayers against arbitrary or abusive actions by officials.
This initiative forms part of broader fiscal reforms highlighted by President Tinubu, including the launch of a new national fiscal policy framework to guide fair taxation, responsible borrowing, and disciplined public spending. “This strategic framework will lay the foundation for a more sustainable future,” he said. “These reforms are designed to reduce the cost of living, promote economic justice, and build a business-friendly economy that attracts investment and supports every Nigerian.”
The President also highlighted progress in economic diversification, particularly in the solid minerals sector, which has recorded substantial revenue growth. By transitioning from the outdated pit-to-port policy to a value-added model, the sector is attracting new investors and processing plants, further strengthening Nigeria’s economic resilience.
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