Association Seeks Business Rates Collection Review

The leadership of
Association of Micro Entrepreneurs of Nigeria has called for the review of business rates collection system by the three tiers of government in the country.
Speaking to The Tide on Saturday at the Presidential Hotel, Port Harcourt, National President of the Association, Chief Njoku Raymond said the review would provide a competitive business environment where small and medium enterprises will thrive in Nigeria.
Njoku said that the association wants a fundamental review of the rates usually paid by small business owners to government to be streamlined with proper policy.
He said government should review the business rates to the bearest minimum to support the growth of small businesses in the state and Nigeria.
He said government should consider the review as a matter of priority as well as the options for long-term administrative reform that would balance the need for the small and medium businesses to deliver.
He lamented that most of the small and medium business owners are finding it difficult to operate due to the disproportionate burden placed on them by business rates system, adding that such small and medium businesses are a key part in building a stronger economy.
The association’s President also said that there have been rise in the interest rate which has made a tight situation for small businesses to thrive.
He said the situation has hindered the growth of small and medium business enterprises, stressing that operational and financial fitness are vital to ensure companies make the most of any top line growth and attract investment.
He urged the state and federal governments to ensure that SMEs thrive despite the challenges of the tough business operating system.

Philip Okparaji