The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has called for a more efficient and transparent implementation of the Single Inter-State Road Tax Sticker (SIRTS) and Single Haulage Fee (SHF) initiatives, aimed at streamlining logistics and curbing multiple taxation.
Speaking at a strategic dialogue workshop in Lagos, MAN Director-General Segun Ajayi-Kadir stressed the need to eliminate operational bottlenecks that hinder the effectiveness of the new tax system. He noted that while manufacturers support the initiative, poor execution such as arbitrary enforcement, unclear payment processes, and multiple levies has continued to burden businesses.
“SIRTS and SHF are critical tools for improving the business climate, but they must be implemented fairly and transparently,” Ajayi-Kadir said. “We are ready to comply, but the current challenges must be addressed.”
Introduced by the Joint Tax Board, SIRTS is an annual electronic sticker issued during vehicle registration to allow seamless movement of goods across state lines, while the SHF is a trip-based fee paid between states at points of loading and offloading. The goal is to harmonise transport taxes, reduce extortion on highways, and boost supply chain efficiency.
Dr Ayodele Subair, Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, emphasised the importance of collaboration among stakeholders. He noted that the unified system could significantly cut operational costs, eliminate illegal charges, and improve delivery timelines for manufacturers.
Subair acknowledged lingering implementation issues, including resistance from informal toll collectors, poor awareness among operators, and weak inter-agency coordination. He called for continued sensitisation, digital enforcement tools, and stricter penalties to discourage illegal levies.
Ogun State Internal Revenue Service Chairman, Olugbenga Olaleye, revealed that over 20 states have adopted the SIRTS initiative. He affirmed that with proper execution, the system would restore trust in road tax administration, eliminate illegal roadblocks, and ensure consistent inter-state access.
Olaleye also clarified that SHF charges are determined per trip rather than based on goods content, adding that state agencies must collaborate to ensure equitable revenue sharing and effective nationwide enforcement.
MAN reiterated its commitment to working with stakeholders to resolve these challenges and ensure the initiatives fulfil their potential to transform Nigeria’s transport and business landscape.
