To address the challenges of multiple taxation and unauthorized levies affecting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the Niger Delta, the Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) has established a Technical Working Group (TWG) on Tax Reforms. The inaugural meeting, held on March 19, 2025, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, business membership organizations (BMOs), civil society organizations (CSOs), and tax policy experts, to develop strategies for reform.
Speaking on behalf of PIND’s Executive Director, Mr. Tunji Idowu, PIND’s Advocacy Manager Chuks Ofulue underscored the urgency of tax reforms in fostering a business-friendly environment. He reaffirmed PIND’s commitment to ensuring that MSMEs are not hindered by uncoordinated tax policies that stifle growth and economic development.
Addressing the Challenges of Multiple Taxation
A 2022 PIND assessment of taxation practices in Abia, Delta, and Rivers States revealed that uncoordinated and overlapping tax policies across different levels of government impose significant financial burdens on MSMEs, leading to business closures, job losses, and slowed economic growth.
The TWG is tasked with monitoring and influencing tax policies, advocating for reforms, and ensuring that taxation practices support business growth in the region. Its mandate includes:
- Identifying gaps in current tax policies and engaging government authorities to implement necessary reforms.
- Aligning state taxation structures with Nigeria’s National Fiscal Policy to streamline tax practices.
- Eliminating unauthorized levies that overburden small businesses and create an unfavorable business climate.
- Developing an advocacy roadmap to guide long-term policy interventions and implementation strategies.
A Collaborative Effort for Policy Change
At the inaugural meeting, TWG members reviewed operational guidelines, established an advocacy framework, and defined key responsibilities to maintain progress. Work sessions focused on developing a comprehensive action plan for engaging policymakers and promoting tax simplification for MSMEs.
Sustaining Advocacy for Impact
Moving forward, the TWG will work closely with government agencies, tax regulators, and business communities to drive the adoption of fair and transparent tax policies. PIND will continue to provide technical support to ensure that advocacy efforts lead to meaningful policy changes.
By launching this initiative, PIND reinforces its commitment to addressing taxation challenges affecting MSMEs, creating a more dynamic, sustainable, and inclusive economic landscape in the Niger Delta.
