The Office of the Tax Ombud has designated Borno State as the North-East zonal headquarters, aiming to bring taxpayer support and dispute-resolution services closer to individuals and businesses in the region. This development was announced during a visit by the Tax Ombud, Dr. John Nwabueze, to Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, in Maiduguri. The establishment of the zonal headquarters is expected to enhance taxpayer support services across the North-East.
Dr. Nwabueze stated that the Office of the Tax Ombud was established to provide timely, transparent, impartial, and amicable mechanisms for resolving disputes between taxpayers and tax authorities. He emphasized that taxpayers deserve to be treated fairly and in accordance with the law as they fulfill their civic responsibility to pay taxes. The Office of the Tax Ombud is one of the landmark achievements of the ongoing tax reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Tax Ombud noted that tax-related disputes, including challenges arising from multiple taxation, are inevitable at the subnational level in a vibrant commercial environment. Borno State's strategic economic and revenue position in the North-East zone makes it an ideal location for the zonal headquarters. The establishment of the Office of the Tax Ombud aims to improve the tax-to-GDP ratio of both the state and the nation.
Governor Zulum pledged the necessary political will and support to ensure the successful hosting of the North-East zonal headquarters in Borno State. He also pledged the immediate provision of an office building and other necessary facilities required for the take-off of the zonal headquarters in Maiduguri. A committee was constituted to engage with the Tax Ombud and identify the immediate needs and requirements for the office to commence operations.
In the long term, Governor Zulum directed the Director-General of the Borno State Geographic Information Service to provide suitable land for the development of a permanent regional headquarters of the Office of the Tax Ombud. This demonstrates the governor's commitment to hosting the zonal headquarters and providing a conducive environment for its operations.
The establishment of the Office of the Tax Ombud is part of the Federal Government's efforts to build a fair, efficient, and citizen-centered tax system. The Office of the Tax Ombud will provide support services to taxpayers and resolve disputes in a timely and transparent manner. This development is expected to contribute to improving the tax-to-GDP ratio and promoting economic growth in the region.
The designation of Borno State as the North-East zonal headquarters of the Office of the Tax Ombud is a significant development in the region. The Office of the Tax Ombud will work closely with the state government to ensure the successful implementation of its mandate. The governor's pledge of support and provision of necessary facilities will facilitate the take-off of the zonal headquarters and ensure its effective operations.
Key points
- Borno State designated as North-East zonal headquarters of Office of Tax Ombud
- Governor Zulum pledges office building and land for permanent regional headquarters
- Office of Tax Ombud aims to improve tax-to-GDP ratio and promote economic growth
