By Patrick Idowu
Members of the House of Representatives have called for urgent tax relief for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), warning that excessive taxation could stifle business growth and increase unemployment.
The lawmakers made the appeal on Friday at the unveiling of Dreamskin Luxe Empire, an entrepreneurial center in Abuja, marking St. Valentine’s Day.
Chinedu Obika, representing Abuja Municipal/Bwari Federal Constituency, urged FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to curb multiple taxation, which he said discourages entrepreneurship and economic development.
“Small businesses are being overburdened with tenement rates, business premises tax, and other levies,” Obika said. “If this continues, many will shut down, pushing more people into joblessness and insecurity.”
He called on area council chairmen to harmonize taxes and provide incentives to encourage businesses to thrive.
Ikenga Ugochinyere, representing Ideato Federal Constituency, emphasized that the proposed Tax Reform Bills would shift more tax burden to big businesses, easing pressure on SMEs.
Similarly, Chinwe Nnabuife (Orumba North/South Federal Constituency) and Mohammed Jamilu (Faskari/Kankara/Sabuwa Federal Constituency) stressed the need for stronger public-private partnerships to tackle unemployment and empower youth.
Earlier, Dreamskin Luxe Empire CEO, Nancy Irole, described the launch of the center as “a dream come true,” emphasizing its role in promoting wellness and self-care for Nigerians.
