Nigeria's Tax Ombud and OGFZA partner to resolve investor disputes and boost foreign investment

This partnership aims to make these zones more attractive to foreign and local investors by providing an independent channel for resolving complaints concerning taxes, levies, regulatory fees, customs duties, and excise matters. The initiative was announced following a visit by the Tax Ombud and Chief Executive, Dr. John Nwabueze, to OGFZA. This move supports the Federal Government's goal of increasing Nigeria's tax-to-GDP ratio while also attracting foreign direct investment and stimulating private-sector activity.

Nigeria's oil and gas free zones offer incentives like tax exemptions and customs duty concessions to attract capital and create jobs. However, multiple taxes and disputes over incentive interpretations can create uncertainty for businesses. Dr. Nwabueze stated that the collaboration would foster a fairer and more predictable environment, improving transparency and accountability in tax administration.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of OGFZA, Alhaji Usman Bamanga Jada, emphasized that efficient complaint resolution strengthens investor confidence. Both agencies have appointed liaison officers to coordinate the partnership, which seeks to balance revenue mobilization with investment promotion, ensuring that tax and regulatory disputes do not undermine investment incentives.