Rivers State is moving to ease tax burdens on businesses by simplifying processes and expanding the tax base, Governor Siminalayi Fubara announced. The move comes amid growing concerns over multiple taxation by various agencies at the federal, state, and local levels, which disproportionately affects women- and youth-led enterprises.
A recent study by the Stakeholder Democracy Network (SDN) revealed that businesses face up to 75 different taxes and levies, often collected by unclear or unauthorized individuals. State, local, and federal agencies all impose taxes, creating confusion and added costs for businesses.
According to the study, businesses owned by young people under 35 spend about 31% of their income on taxes, while older business owners pay significantly less. Women-owned businesses also report higher rates of multiple taxation compared to those run by men.
It is in response to these challenges that Governor Siminalayi Fubara announced a series of reforms aimed at easing these tax burdens on businesses in Rivers State. Speaking at the 156th Joint Tax Board Meeting in Port Harcourt, Fubara emphasized that his government would focus on fair tax collection while ensuring development continues across the state.
Governor Fubara acknowledged these issues and explained that instead of increasing tax rates, his administration will broaden the tax base. This means making more business tax compliant to ensure fairness without adding more pressure on existing taxpayers. So far, this approach has led to steady increases in revenue, which the state is using to fund key infrastructure projects like roads, schools, healthcare, and security.
Fubara also highlighted the need to simplify the tax system to avoid confusion and extortion. He promised to work with the Joint Tax Board to streamline processes, phase out outdated policies, and tackle illegal tax collections.
If Governor Fubara keeps his promises, businesses in Rivers State will finally get some breathing room. With fewer tax hurdles, companies can grow, create jobs, and attract more investors to the state.
For many business owners who have struggled with confusing and heavy taxes, this shift could be the relief they’ve been waiting for. At the same time, it will help the government collect more revenue fairly and fund important projects that benefit everyone.
