MAN urges government to tackle multiple taxation, improve power supply and create a more stable business environment for manufacturers……
The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has called on the Federal Government to implement urgent reforms aimed at improving the operating environment for manufacturers, warning that rising production costs and regulatory challenges continue to threaten the growth of the country’s industrial sector.
The appeal was made during the 41st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Ogun State Branch of MAN held in Abeokuta, where stakeholders examined the challenges confronting manufacturers under the theme, “Building a Resilient Manufacturing Sector: Surmounting the Challenges of Fiscal and Regulatory Policies and Tariffs.”
Addressing participants, MAN President Francis Meshioye said the manufacturing sector has shouldered much of the burden arising from the Federal Government’s economic reforms over the past three years, leading to higher operating expenses, weaker investment and increasing pressure on businesses.
According to him, building a resilient manufacturing industry requires creating an environment where businesses can withstand economic shocks, adjust to changing government policies, remain competitive and continue to produce goods, invest and create jobs.
Meshioye identified policy consistency, tax harmonisation, affordable energy, quality infrastructure and access to low-interest financing as some of the key measures needed to reposition the sector for sustainable growth.
He also stressed the need for stronger protection against unfair imports, noting that local manufacturers require a level playing field to remain competitive.
The MAN president urged federal and state governments to ensure that taxes, levies and tariffs are transparent and predictable, while calling on regulatory agencies to focus on promoting industrial development rather than prioritising revenue generation.
He disclosed that the association has successfully secured concessions on safety audit charges and facilitated discussions on water abstraction fees and environmental compliance requirements.
Despite those gains, Meshioye maintained that multiple taxation and the poor condition of major industrial roads continue to hinder manufacturing activities.
He called for sustained collaboration between the public and private sectors, harmonisation of regulatory requirements and the rehabilitation of key industrial corridors, particularly in Agbara, Ota and Sagamu, to improve the movement of goods and reduce production costs.
The MAN president further appealed for improved access to finance, stable electricity supply and easier access to foreign exchange to support manufacturing businesses.
He also urged the Federal Government to provide greater clarity on the implementation of the 2025 tax laws, oppose the introduction of retroactive taxation and direct the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to clear outstanding foreign exchange forward obligations owed to manufacturers.
According to him, addressing these issues will help strengthen investor confidence, improve industrial productivity and support the long-term growth of Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.
