The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), has opposed the proposed merger of the Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS), Nigerian Maritime Administration Authority (NIMASA), and Nigerian Customs, as outlined in the government Committee’s report.
A letter by the Chamber to President Bola Tinubu, today, titled, “RE: PLANNED MERGER OF FIRS, NIMASA AND NIGERIA CUSTOMS,” reads in part: “While we appreciate the pro-business policies implemented by your administration, we strongly advise against the proposed merger as it would negatively impact the ease of doing business in Nigeria.
“The distinct mandates of each agency will be affected, leading to confusion, reduced efficiency, and hindered business operations.
“With Nigeria already facing several challenges in improving the ease of doing business, we urge the government to refrain from implementing the merger proposal until wider consultation with industry experts and stakeholders in the Organized Private Sector of Nigeria has been carried out.
“This will help ensure that any decision made will not adversely affect the growth of the economy, revenue generation, and maritime safety.”
The letter signed by the National President, NACCIMA, Dele Kelvin Oye, also recommended that the consultation process should include studying best practices for merging government agencies from other countries.
“This will ensure that Nigeria can proceed with a comprehensive understanding of not just the potential negative impacts of the merger, but also the best methods for mitigating those impacts and maximizing the potential benefits,” it said.
The Chamber also reiterated its commitment “to providing constructive advice and collaborating with the government to improve the business environment in Nigeria,” and implored the President “to take our views into account before making your final decision on this matter.”
With Nigeria already facing several challenges in improving the ease of doing business, we urge the government to refrain from implementing the merger proposal until wider consultation with industry experts and stakeholders in the Organized Private Sector of Nigeria has been carried out.
