Business
MAN Decries Multiple Taxation
The Manufactures Associa
tion of Nigeria (MAN) has expressed concern over the negative impact of multiple taxation to business development in Rivers and Bayelsa States.
Chairman of MAN, Rivers / Beyelsa State branch, Mrs Emilia Ekama Akpan, who stated this at a public function in Port Harcourt recently said there was need for the governments at all levels to come up with well defined tax standard in the country.
The MAN boss noted that such a step would check the problem of multiple taxation and also promote business in the society.
“We have one of the highest lists of taxation in Nigeria, and that is discouraging us. We want government and those responsible that understand it is discouraging she said.
She expressed worry that various local government councils, agencies of the state government initiate various taxes and appealed to Rivers and Bayelsa State governments to also devise ways of reducing taxation.
Akpan said it is retrogressive particularly at the present period when the two states were taking steps to encourage economic development especially the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to allow multiple taxation which mounts challenges to such noble objectives.
“SMEs drive economic development, create jobs and revenues to government”, she said.
She said the association plans to hold her Annual general meeting Thursday, in Port Harcourt and that the theme of the AGM would be, “Developing SMEs in Rivers / Bayelsa States for Sustainable Development.”
The Executive Director, Rivers State Sustainable Development Agency (RSSDA), Mr Noble Pepple, and Deputy General Manager, Sustainable Development Department of Total, Mr Cyprian Ojum are guest speakers.
The governors of Rivers and Bayelsa States Rt Hon Rotimi Amaechi, and Chief Serake Dickson respectively, and the National President of MAN, Dr Frank Jacobs are expected to grace the event.
Chris Oluoh