BY ABDUL-KADIR ABDULLAH
In a concerted effort to enhance Edo State’s business environment and align with Governor Okpebholo’s vision for economic empowerment, the Edo State Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO) and the Ease of Doing Business Secretariat held a strategic consultation meeting with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Edo/Delta Chapter.
The meeting, which took place at the MAN secretariat in Benin City, aimed to strengthen investment partnerships and address pressing concerns raised by local manufacturers.
The government delegation, led by Hon. Amen Odigie, Managing Director of ESIPO, included representatives from the Ministry of Environment and Sustainability as well as the Ministry of Business, Trade, and Cooperatives, underscoring a holistic approach to fostering a business-friendly climate.
Hon. Odigie acknowledged the manufacturers’ concerns, particularly regarding tax collection practices, including issues with consultants collecting taxes and instances of unauthorized revenue collection.
He assured the stakeholders of the government’s commitment to reform, highlighting ongoing efforts towards tax harmonization and the introduction of a tax credit scheme. “We recognise the impact of tax collection issues on businesses, and we are committed to addressing them.
“This administration is serious about resolving challenges facing the business community, which is why we are here to listen and find solutions together,” he stated.
Discussions largely revolved around challenges faced by manufacturers, with a strong emphasis on tax transparency and the unpredictability of levies. Many manufacturers voiced frustration over inflated fees, unexpected taxes, and the lack of stakeholder consultation in policy-making.
They called for the publication of all legitimate taxes and levies to establish a transparent and predictable tax regime.
Chairman of the MAN Edo/Delta Chapter, Mr. Ehizogie Osadolor, highlighted the disruptions caused by unplanned levies. “Manufacturers operate within structured budgets set at the beginning of the year, so facing unexpected taxes and levies is deeply concerning. There is a need for greater clarity and predictability in the system,” he stressed.
Despite the concerns raised, the meeting also acknowledged positive developments, including improvements in land acquisition processes for agricultural investments. Manufacturers recognised the government’s efforts in facilitating access to credit for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through financial institutions like the Bank of Industry.
However, they noted that loan requirements remain stringent, posing a challenge
