Use population census to harmonise data platforms, widen tax base — NACCIMA

The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has called on the Federal Government to use the 2023 population census to harmonise the various data platforms into a central database.

Its National President, Ide John Udeagbala, who gave the advice during the NACCIMA second quarter news conference on Thursday in Lagos, said the government also needed to widen the country’s tax base.

The 2023 Population and Housing Census is scheduled to start on May 3, 2023.

Udeagbala said the soon to be held census provides the opportunity for government to harmonise data platforms such as the National Identification Number (NIN), Bank Verification Number (BVN) among others.

“The 2023 population census could not have come at a better time and as the first digital census to be carried out in Nigeria; it is hoped this will meet global best standard.

“NACCIMA sees this census as an opportunity for government to widen the tax base of the population in the country, instead of increasing tax rates and multiplying taxes on the already over-taxed few individuals and OPSN companies.

“NACCIMA is also concerned by any proposal to increase taxes and therefore calls on the incoming government to reconsider any thoughts on further tax increase, especially the Value Added Tax (VAT),” he said.

He also expressed the private sector’s concern about the several issues which had constrained the growth of the mining sector.

The NACCIMA president listed these challenges to include poor infrastructure, weak regulatory framework and institutions, lack of oversight, best practices and data.

“Furthermore, concerns over illegal mining, lack of protection for legal miners as well as the dichotomy between federal and state governments have all contributed to constraining investments in the sector.

“We call on the government to promote investment in this sector through provision of necessary infrastructures and policies that enhances ease of doing business in this sector,” he said.

Udeagbala advised the incoming government to consider reduction in the size of its functionaries to reduce cost and save funds for infrastructural development.

He emphasised the need to make elective positions and principal appointments into various government offices less financially attractive and redirect attention into production economy to revive the ailing Nigerian economy.