Tax Ombud, OGFZA Partner to Boost Free Zone Investments
By Patience Ikpeme
The Office of the Tax Ombud and the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority have agreed to work together to settle tax disputes and bring more foreign investment into Nigeria’s oil and gas free zones.
The move is part of efforts to boost the country’s tax revenue compared to its overall economy. Both agencies plan to use quick and fair mediation services to solve complaints about taxes and fees affecting businesses operating in the zones.
In a statement released in Abuja by the Chief Press Secretary to the Tax Ombud, Mr. Chukwudi Achife, the decision was made public when the Tax Ombud and Chief Executive, Dr. John C. Nwabueze, paid a visit to the management of the free zones authority.
Dr. Nwabueze said working together would help create a fair, clear, and reliable tax system that encourages investors inside the zones.
“I am very much aware that OGFZA regulates and coordinates activities in the zones, grants permits and licences, administers incentives, and resolves disputes among stakeholders. The Office of the Tax Ombud complements these functions by providing an independent channel for reviewing and resolving complaints relating to taxes, levies, regulatory fees, customs duties and excise matters,” Dr. Nwabueze stated.
He explained that both government bodies can partner to solve complaints from taxpayers, explain how tax discounts work, address general problems in the system, and build public trust. According to him, these steps will encourage businesses to pay their taxes willingly and support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for national growth.
Welcoming the guest, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the free zones authority, Alhaji Usman Bamanga Jada, explained that companies in the oil and gas zones already enjoy special tax waivers and customs discounts created by the Federal Government. He said these benefits were designed to bring in foreign money, build infrastructure, and create jobs for Nigerians through private businesses.
Alhaji Usman noted that partnering with the Tax Ombud comes at the right time. He said it would make investors feel more confident and boost trade across special economic zones in the country.
To turn their agreement into real action without delay, both agencies have named special contact officers who will manage the partnership and ensure they achieve their goals quickly.
