TAX OMBUDSMAN EXPANDS PRESENCE IN NORTHEAST WITH NEW BORNO OFFICE

Borno State has hosted the establishment of a new Northeast zonal office of the Tax Appeal Tribunal, aimed at improving access to tax dispute resolution and strengthening the relationship between taxpayers and revenue authorities in the region. The development is expected to make it easier for businesses and individuals in the Northeast to resolve tax-related disputes without having to travel to distant locations.

The new office is expected to serve taxpayers across Borno and other states in the Northeast, providing a closer avenue for addressing complaints and disagreements arising from tax assessments, collections and other revenue matters. Its establishment is also expected to support greater awareness of taxpayers’ rights and responsibilities while encouraging compliance with existing tax laws.

The initiative comes as Nigeria continues to pursue reforms aimed at improving the tax system and expanding the country’s revenue base. Having institutions that can independently address disputes is considered important to building confidence in the tax system, particularly among businesses that require clear and predictable procedures when dealing with government revenue agencies.

Stakeholders at the opening were expected to emphasise the importance of cooperation between government institutions, businesses and taxpayers in creating a more efficient revenue environment. For the Northeast, the presence of a dedicated office could also reduce the challenges faced by taxpayers who previously had limited access to formal mechanisms for resolving tax disputes.

The development is expected to strengthen tax administration and dispute resolution in the region while supporting the Federal Government’s broader efforts to improve domestic revenue mobilisation. With the Northeast facing unique economic and development challenges, improved access to tax-related institutions could help businesses operate with greater certainty and encourage more formal economic activity.