MAN urges Lagos to harmonise tax code

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria has called on Lagos State to become the first to publish a harmonised tax code, saying it would significantly reduce compliance costs for manufacturers. MAN President Francis Meshioye urged Lagos to provide a single system for tax assessment and payment, eliminating duplication and uncertainty across government agencies and levels of administration.

He urged the state to adopt a "No-Tout Zone" policy to protect legitimate revenue collection from illegal levies imposed by non-state actors. Meshioye also called for better infrastructure and security in trade corridors like Apapa, stating that the tax paid should translate into better roads, working drainage, and security. The association is not seeking tax exemptions but wants manufacturers' paid taxes to improve their environment.

Effective implementation of the new tax laws could expand the tax base and ease the burden on compliant businesses, Meshioye said. MAN called for the sub-national governments to fully domesticate and implement the new framework to achieve the intended relief for manufacturers.