Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has pledged the state government’s support for the Office of the Tax Ombud as part of efforts to strengthen tax administration, improve revenue mobilisation and protect taxpayers’ rights.

Sani made the commitment yesterday when the Tax Ombud and Chief Executive, Dr John Nwabueze, paid a courtesy visit to the Kaduna State Government House.

The governor said stronger collaboration between federal and state institutions was necessary to build a sustainable tax system capable of generating adequate revenue for development.

He described the role of the Tax Ombud as critical to building taxpayer confidence, particularly at the subnational level, noting that a fair, transparent and efficient tax system would also support Kaduna’s economic competitiveness and investment drive.

Sani commended Nwabueze for his stakeholder engagements aimed at improving public awareness of the free mediation and alternative dispute resolution services available to taxpayers through the Office of the Tax Ombud.

He said educating taxpayers about their rights and the channels available for resolving legitimate grievances would help strengthen trust in tax administration and encourage voluntary compliance.

The governor’s support comes as the Office of the Tax Ombud seeks deeper cooperation with state governments to improve the relationship between taxpayers and revenue authorities.

Nwabueze said his office was committed to working with Kaduna State to address legitimate taxpayer complaints and promote greater certainty for businesses operating in the state.

He explained that the Tax Ombud complements the efforts of state governments to improve their fiscal positions by providing an independent avenue for taxpayers who believe they have been unfairly treated by tax and revenue authorities.

“Tax compliance and taxpayer rights must go hand in hand if we are to achieve the increased tax-to-GDP growth that Nigeria needs,” Nwabueze said.

He said the quality of tax administration at the state level influenced citizens’ perception of taxation and, consequently, their willingness to comply with their obligations.

Nwabueze identified Kaduna as an important partner in the implementation of the ongoing tax reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He urged closer cooperation among subnational governments, the Joint Revenue Board and the Office of the Tax Ombud to develop a tax system that could mobilise resources for development while protecting taxpayers and encouraging investment.

According to him, Kaduna could provide an example of how improved revenue administration could support economic growth while safeguarding taxpayers’ rights.

Nwabueze also sought the governor’s support for taxpayer education, voluntary compliance and constructive engagement among the Kaduna State Internal Revenue Service, taxpayers and the Office of the Tax Ombud.

He said stronger cooperation among the stakeholders would contribute to a more predictable tax environment, improved revenue performance and better operating conditions for businesses and investors in the state.