The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani has, on behalf of Edo State Government, condemned multiple taxation and advocated for more efficient tax administration to address the issue.
Making the stance of the State Government known during a meeting with delegates of the State Chapter of Market Traders Association of Nigeria (MATAN) at the Government House in Benin City, Mrs. Anani emphasized that multiple taxation leads to increased commodity prices, calling for a fairer and more reformed system.
”In the market space, we need to bring regularity and ensure equality. Double taxation is a major problem that is detrimental to our economy. It is unacceptable because it leads to extremely high prices. We must promote fairness in the markets, as not everyone can afford to pay more. Let us bring sanity to this system. Currently, women often increase prices to make profit due to these unfair tax practices, so please focus on addressing this issue”. She said.
The Coordinator further urged the Group to use their influence to promote good governance and integrity.
”It is crucial that your voice matters and directs good governance with your followership. You have the power to guide this government in the right direction. I encourage you to amplify your voice, stand for integrity and promote good governance through the influence you have”. Anani continued.
In her remark, the Chairperson of the Market Traders Association of Nigeria, Edo State Chapter, Deaconess Marina Osaghae, commended Mrs. Anani’s leadership and dedication to women and youth empowerment, adding that the Association had added a significant boost to Government revenue and contributed to economic development, securing and structuring the lives of traders nationwide, particularly in Edo State.
According to Deaconess Osaghae, “Over the years, our Association has served as a major boost to Government revenue and a key player in the economic development of our Nation. As traders, we form a critical part of the informal sector and the Association has remained committed to making the lives of traders across Nigeria, especially in Edo State, more secure, structured and prosperous”.
Deaconess Osaghae highlighted the Association’s milestones to include a memorandum of understanding with the Federal Inland Revenue Service and the Joint Tax Board to enhance Value Added Tax (VAT) compliance.
According to her, the Market Traders Association of Nigeria had partnered with Burke-Frazier on the VAT Direct Initiative, solidifying its role in Nigeria’s Tax modernization.
”With nationwide operations set to commence, the Association has introduced initiatives like the Traders Multipurpose Identity Card to strengthen Tax and Identity systems”. She said.
Gloria Osemudiamhen
Public Relations Officer
Office of the First Lady
Edo State
PHOTO CAPTION
5th Left: The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani; 4th Left: the Chairperson of the Market Traders Association of Nigeria, Edo State Chapter, Deaconess Marina Osaghae and other members of the Association, during a meeting at the Government House in Benin City.
