Niger State Government Prohibits Taxation of Hawkers and Petty Traders.

By Yahaya Zakka, Minna.
The Niger State Government has officially prohibited the taxation of hawkers and petty traders throughout the state.
This announcement was made by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago during a press briefing at the Government House in Minna, the state capital.
Governor Bago emphasized the detrimental effects of taxation on petty traders, noting that these individuals have often been subjected to exploitation through excessive tax charges.
He urged Local Government Council Chairmen and councilors to take immediate action to eradicate this practice.
The Governor highlighted that Niger State operates under a centralized tax system, which expressly exempts all hawkers and petty traders from taxation.
He stated, “We have observed with dismay how petty traders and hawkers are being exploited with multiple taxes. As a government, we have resolved that henceforth, no petty trader should be taxed.”
He reinforced that both hawkers and petty traders are to remain tax-free within Niger State, adding, “Anyone found taxing them will face strict consequences for extortion.”