MAN Urges States, Federal Govt. To Harmonise Taxes In Nigeria

The group known as the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), has called for the harmonization of taxes in the land to boost investment drive and economic development.

MAN also urged governments at all levels to guide against what it described as the arbitrary appointment of consultants in its tax drive.

Addressing journalists in Ibadan the Oyo State Capital recently, during its 37th Annual General Meeting, the Chairman of the association, Mr. Samuel Kolawole lamented the inability of the government to harmonize the various taxes, saying this was a serious burden to manufacturers.

He said, “The major challenges faced by manufacturers across the zone and Oyo particularly where the largest membership is based, are the inability of the government to harmonize its taxes.

“Our association has continued to advocate for favorable policies from the state governments towards ensuring ease of doing business in the region.

“There is no doubt that year 2019 came with a lot of challenges. However, we weathered the storms to remain in business thereby contributing our quota to the economic development of the states as well as our country. We deserve commendation for our resilience in the midst of a difficult operating environment.

“From recession to border closure, to COVID-19 pandemic, you have remained afloat. It is this doggedness that keeps the nation above water.

“In the year 2019 under review, the manufacturing sector faced a lot of challenges both internally and externally. The high cost of clearing goods at the ports, the delays turned demurrage fees, gridlock and lack of basic amenities, double taxation, levies, and charges have all made the cost of production skyrocketed and sadly, the consumers are also paying for it.

“The contributions of the manufacturing sector to the nation’s real GDP in quarter 4 of 2019 was 8.74per cent contribution as recorded in quarter 3.”