Tinubu Appoints John Nwabueze as Nigeria’s First Tax Ombudsman

The Federal Government has appointed Dr. John Nwabueze as the Tax Ombudsman of Nigeria, in line with the provisions of the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2025.

Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga announced the appointment in a statement on Tuesday, saying it reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to implementing broad and sustainable reforms in Nigeria’s tax and revenue administration system.

Dr. Nwabueze, who hails from Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State, brings decades of experience in taxation, finance, and public policy to the new role.

Before his appointment, he served as Managing Partner at 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 to former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Educational Background

He holds a Doctor of Business Administration (Finance) from Walden University, Minneapolis, USA; an M.Sc. in Accounting from Strayer University, Washington D.C.; and dual B.Sc. degrees in Accounting and Mathematics from the University of Jos, Nigeria.

Mandate of the Office

According to the presidency, the Office of the Tax Ombudsman was established to promote transparency, accountability, and fairness within Nigeria’s tax system.

It will provide a structured mechanism for the impartial resolution of disputes between taxpayers and revenue authorities and strengthen public confidence in tax administration.

The office will handle complaints relating to taxes, levies, regulatory fees, customs duties, and excise matters, ensuring that disputes are resolved efficiently and without bias.

“The Tax Ombudsman shall safeguard the rights of taxpayers against arbitrary or abusive practices by tax officials,” the statement added.

President Tinubu congratulated Dr. Nwabueze on his appointment and expressed confidence in his ability to “discharge the responsibilities of his office with integrity, diligence, and utmost professionalism.”