The Edo State Government has reiterated its opposition to multiple taxation, stressing the need for a more efficient and equitable tax administration system that will ease the burden on traders and stabilize commodity prices.
Speaking at the Government House in Benin City during a meeting with delegates of the Market Traders Association of Nigeria (MATAN), Edo State Chapter, the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, said multiple taxation remains a major challenge in the market space, fueling inflation and hurting both traders and consumers.
“In the market space, we need regularity and fairness. Double taxation is unacceptable because it pushes prices up and places unnecessary hardship on families. Women, who make up the majority of traders, often have no choice but to increase prices in order to make a profit. This practice is detrimental to the economy, and we must reform the system to promote sanity and fairness,” Mrs. Anani emphasized.
She further called on MATAN members to use their influence in advocating good governance and integrity within the trading community. “Your voice carries weight. You can guide government in the right direction and amplify integrity while promoting good governance. I encourage you to use that influence positively,” she added.
In her remarks, the Edo State Chairperson of MATAN, Deaconess Marina Osaghae, praised Mrs. Anani for her leadership and commitment to women and youth empowerment. She noted that the Association continues to play a vital role in boosting government revenue and advancing economic development across Nigeria, particularly in Edo State.
“Over the years, MATAN has remained a strong driver of government revenue and economic growth. Our role in structuring and securing the lives of traders nationwide, especially here in Edo, is a testament to our commitment to progress,” Osaghae stated.
She highlighted several achievements of the Association, including a memorandum of understanding with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Joint Tax Board to strengthen VAT compliance. MATAN has also partnered with Burke-Frazier on the VAT Direct Initiative and introduced the Traders Multipurpose Identity Card to improve tax and identity systems nationwide.
According to Osaghae, the Association’s nationwide rollout of its initiatives will further solidify its place in Nigeria’s ongoing tax modernization efforts.
Reported by: Stone Reporters News
📩 info@stonereportersnews.com | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNews
Add comment
Comments