The Kebbi Government has introduced a ‘single demand notice’ aimed at abolishing multiple taxation to enable Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the state to thrive and flourish.
Dr Muhammad Kabir-Kamba, the Director-General, Kebbi Investment Promotion Agency (KIPA), made this known at a forum on ‘Access to Credit for SMEs’ held in Birnin Kebbi on Wednesday.
He said that KIPA was established last year to boost investments in the state and encourage economic development.
“SMEs are key to economic growth. The incumbent administration of Gov. Nasir Idris is committed to removing all impediments to business activities, including multiple taxation.
“The governor has issued an Executive Order for a ‘single demand notice’ to allow a breathing space for small and medium businesses in tax payment.
“We are aware of the challenges faced by SMEs in accessing credit facilities from finance institutions.
“We have assembled all stakeholders to this forum to reappraise the matter for obvious solutions,” Kabir-Kamba said.
Declaring the session open, the State Acting Head of Service, Hajiya Aishatu Usman, said small and medium scale businesses played pivotal roles in driving economic growth, innovation and job creation in the state.
“Kebbi government remains committed to the provision of an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
“This administration established KIPA to promote investment, enhance economic development and provide support to business enterprises.
“This forum aligns with our mission to facilitate access to finance, a critical factory in unlocking the potential of small and medium businesses,” she said.
Usman said that the Kebbi 2024 budget prioritised initiatives that foster economic growth, including programmes aimed at improving access to credit for SMEs.
“We recognise the challenges entrepreneurs face on the issue of funding and the government is committed to removing these obstacles,” the HoS said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that participants at the session comprised businessmen and women, bankers, micro finance houses, investors, financial organisations and KIPA technocrats, among others. (NAN)
