Delta State is set to become the operational hub for tax dispute resolution in the South-South, as Governor Sheriff Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to a transparent and equitable tax system.
The governor made this known on Thursday at Government House, Asaba, while receiving the Chief Executive Officer of the Office of the Tax Ombud Nigeria, Dr. John Nwabueze, alongside members of his delegation.
Despite the public holiday, Oborevwori described the visit as both timely and symbolic, noting that it reflects a shared resolve to strengthen Nigeria’s tax administration through accountability and fairness.
He praised President Bola Tinubu for the establishment of the independent Tax Ombud Office as part of the 2025 tax reforms, describing the initiative as a significant step toward improving the nation’s fiscal structure.
Oborevwori also congratulated Nwabueze on his appointment as the pioneer head of the office, emphasising the importance of the institution in safeguarding taxpayers’ rights, mediating disputes at no cost, and ensuring that tax authorities operate within the bounds of the law.
According to the governor, Delta State fully aligns with the objectives of the Tax Ombud Office, particularly in promoting transparency, discouraging arbitrary taxation, and restoring public trust in the system.
He noted that these goals were consistent with the state’s ongoing fiscal reforms.
He disclosed that the state government is currently harmonising its tax framework in line with the National Tax Reform Law of 2025.
This includes plans to repeal the Delta State Internal Revenue Service Law of 2020 and introduce a unified taxes and levies law by 2026.
The reforms, he explained, are designed to eliminate multiple taxation, enhance the ease of doing business, and improve internally generated revenue.
Reiterating his administration’s people-centered approach, Oborevwori stressed that fairness remains the cornerstone of the evolving tax regime.
He assured residents that policies would continue to balance revenue generation with the welfare of citizens.
In a show of support for the new federal initiative, the governor pledged to provide office accommodation for the Tax Ombud Office in Delta State, in line with efforts to build an efficient and impartial tax system nationwide.
Highlighting achievements in governance, Oborevwori revealed that D
State was recently ranked among the top ten states in Nigeria in the 2025 Governance Accountability and Transparency Index.
He attributed the recognition to sustained reforms and a commitment to openness in governance.
Earlier, Nwabueze expressed appreciation for the warm reception, noting that the visit marked his first official engagement in the South-South region since assuming office.
He described the trip as particularly significant, given his roots in Delta State.
He announced that Delta has been selected as the zonal headquarters of the Tax Ombud Office for the South-South, a region comprising six states.
According to him, the decision reflects the state’s growing relevance in Nigeria’s economic and fiscal landscape.
Nwabueze expressed confidence that collaboration between the Tax Ombud Office and the Delta State Government would promote a more transparent, efficient, and business-friendly tax environment.
He further explained that the Office of the Tax Ombud, established under the Joint Tax Board Establishment Act of 2025, operates as an independent body tasked with addressing complaints related to taxation.
Its mandate covers issues such as levies, regulatory charges, customs duties, and excise matters, with a focus on fairness and impartial resolution.
