By Sunday Apah
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has reiterated his administration’s dedication to ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability within the state’s tax administration framework.
This commitment coincides with Delta’s designation as the host for the South-South Zonal Headquarters of the Office of the Tax Ombud Nigeria.
Governor Oborevwori conveyed this assurance during a meeting on Thursday with the Tax Ombud and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. John Nwabueze, and his delegation at the Government House in Asaba.
Despite the public holiday, the Governor extended a cordial welcome, emphasizing the significance of the visit in reinforcing a mutual dedication to enhancing Nigeria’s tax system through principles of equity and responsibility.
He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for instituting the autonomous Tax Ombud Office under the 2025 tax reforms, characterizing the initiative as a well-timed enhancement to the nation’s fiscal structure.
In congratulating Dr. Nwabueze on his pioneering appointment, Governor Oborevwori commended the office’s vital function in safeguarding taxpayer rights, offering cost-free mediation for disputes, and ensuring accountability across tax administration processes.
“Our administration strongly endorses the Tax Ombud Office’s mission to advance transparency, mitigate inequitable practices, and foster public trust in the taxation system. These goals are closely aligned with Delta State’s ongoing reform agenda,” Oborevwori stated.
He further revealed that the state government is harmonizing its regulations 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 consolidated taxes and levies law by 2026. These measures are designed to eliminate duplicate taxation, enhance the business climate, and increase internally generated revenue.
The Governor stressed that citizen fairness remains a cornerstone of the new tax framework, affirming that his government will continue to implement policies that promote public welfare while reinforcing revenue streams.
As a demonstration of support, Oborevwori pledged to provide immediate office accommodation for the Tax Ombud Office within the state, in accordance with the Federal Government’s objective of cultivating an effective and just tax system.
Citing recent achievements, the Governor noted that Delta State has been ranked among Nigeria’s top ten states in the 2025 Governance Accountability and Transparency Index, an accolade awarded by a respected assembly of online media editors. He attributed this recognition to persistent reforms and a steadfast focus on sound governance.
In his address, Dr. Nwabueze thanked the Governor for the hospitable reception, noting that his visit held both professional and personal significance as his first official engagement in the South-South region since his appointment and as a native of Delta State.
He confirmed Delta State’s appointment as the Zonal Headquarters for the South-South geopolitical zone, which encompasses six states—a decision that underscores the state’s rising economic and fiscal prominence.
Dr. Nwabueze expressed confidence that the collaboration between the Tax Ombud Office and the Delta State Government will cultivate a more efficient, transparent, and conducive tax environment for businesses and citizens alike.
He clarified that the Office of the Tax Ombud, founded under the Joint Tax Board Establishment Act of 2025, operates as an independent and neutral body tasked with resolving complaints pertaining to taxation, including levies, regulatory fees, customs duties, and excise-related issues.
