By Osas
Point-of-Sale (PoS) operators across Nigeria are lamenting exorbitant taxation by various state governments.
Reports indicate that these agents are being levied annual taxes amounting to a minimum of N30,000.
The issue was brought to light by Obioha Oti, the National Vice President of the Association of Mobile Money and Bank Agents in Nigeria, during an interview with Channels Television.
Oti highlighted the dual challenges faced by PoS vendors: the ongoing naira scarcity and the burdensome tax regime.
Oti pointed out that in states such as Anambra, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom, as well as regions in the southwest and northern Nigeria, PoS operators are subjected to daily taxes of N100 and monthly charges of N2,500.
He expressed concern over the additional financial strain this places on agents, particularly in Anambra, where a government-sanctioned agency is responsible for collecting these fees, including a registration charge of N1,000.
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The cumulative effect of these taxes is significant, with each agent potentially paying upwards of N30,000 in taxes to the state annually.
Oti’s revelations underscore the broader difficulties faced by PoS operators, who are already grappling with the impact of the naira shortage on their businesses.
The situation is further complicated by instances where multiple tax collectors are involved, exacerbating the financial burden on these service providers.