The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has described the newly unveiled Tax Ombud Office platforms as a significant step toward strengthening transparency, accountability and public confidence in Nigeria’s tax administration system.

Idris made the remark on Monday in Abuja during the official unveiling of the Tax Ombud Office website and toll-free call centre, where he said the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at building a more citizen-centred governance structure.

He explained that improving transparency in tax administration was essential to restoring trust between government and taxpayers, adding that effective communication remains central to sustaining ongoing economic reforms.

“This is a major milestone in strengthening public trust, improving accessibility and promoting fairness in Nigeria’s tax administration system,” the minister said.

According to him, the Federal Government remains committed to implementing reforms that will enhance revenue generation, support fiscal stability and drive national development through a more efficient tax system.

Idris noted that taxation plays a critical role in financing key sectors of the economy, including infrastructure, healthcare, education, transportation and security.

He, however, stressed that tax administration must go beyond enforcement to include fairness, openness and sustained engagement with citizens.

“Tax administration cannot succeed on enforcement alone. It must be supported by public trust, transparency, fairness and effective communication,” he stated.

The minister described the Tax Ombud Office as an important institutional bridge between taxpayers and tax authorities, designed to provide Nigerians with an independent platform for resolving complaints and addressing grievances.

He further commended the introduction of the toll-free call centre and official website, noting that they would remove barriers that often hinder citizens from accessing tax-related information and services.

“The launch of the Toll-Free Call Centre demonstrates a commitment to removing communication barriers and ensuring that Nigerians can easily seek information, make enquiries and resolve complaints without unnecessary difficulties or financial burden,” Idris said.

He also emphasized the importance of civic education and public enlightenment in promoting voluntary tax compliance and responsible citizenship, adding that tax awareness goes beyond revenue generation.

“Tax education is not just about revenue generation; it is about building a culture of national participation and shared responsibility,” he added.

Idris warned that misinformation and poor communication often undermine reform efforts, urging stronger collaboration among government agencies, the media, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.

He said sustained engagement would help citizens better understand tax policies and their role in national development.

“Misinformation and inadequate communication often contribute to distrust and resistance to reforms. This underscores the importance of strategic media engagement and sustained public communication,” he said.

The minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting public sensitisation campaigns on tax reforms, taxpayers’ rights and available complaint-resolution mechanisms.

He expressed confidence that improved communication and transparency would strengthen public confidence in the tax system and support the broader goals of the Renewed Hope Agenda.