NACCIMA urges FG to Refrain from Merging FIRS, NIMASA, NCS

 

The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has urged the Federal Government to refrain from implementing its proposed merger of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS).

NACCIMA said while it appreciates the pro-business policies implemented by the President Bola Tinubu-led administration, “we strongly advise against the proposed merger as it would negatively impact the ease of doing business in Nigeria.”

The Chamber, in a letter dated June 27, 2023 and addressed to the president, stated that the mandates of each agency would 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 Organised Private Sector (OPS) of Nigeria has been carried out,” NACCIMA said.

NACCIMA, in the letter, which was signed by its National President, Dele Kelvin Oye, said a wider consultation with industry stakeholders would help ensure that any decision made will not adversely affect the growth of the economy, revenue generation, and maritime safety.

“Additionally, we recommend that the consultation process 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 maximizsing the potential benefits,” NACCIMA said.

The Chamber further stated that as experts, it remained committed to providing constructive advice and collaborating with the government to improve the business environment in Nigeria.

“Therefore, we implore you to take our views into account before making your final decision on this matter,” NACCIMA said, adding that it looked forward to the president’s positive consideration of its position.