Niger State Government has debunked a report by an online media platform that the Niger State Environmental Protection Agency(NISEPA) imposed a tax of N100,800.00 on petty traders in all business premises, including markets across the 25 local councils of the state.

The General Manager, Niger State Environmental Protection Agency, Dr. Abubakar Muhammad, refuted the allegations while briefing journalists in his office in Minna.

Dr Muhammad clarified that the information presented in the media was completely false.

The general manager hinted that the agency has an established system of categorising businesses and defining levies that have not been arbitrarily created but rather exist as part of a historical framework.

Dr Muhammad noted that the agency is dedicated to an automated billing system aimed at ensuring accurate billing for businesses that are properly captured, and insisted that this does not apply to petty traders.

He said, “NISEPA has introduced a ‘pay-as-you-throw’ initiative designed to support petty traders. Launched on October 10, 2024, this programme allows owners of small businesses to purchase a litter bag for only N150.”

He also explained that petty traders are encouraged to responsibly dispose of waste generated by their businesses on their premises using litter bags, which designated evacuation vans will collect.

Dr Muhammad highlighted that compliance with the pay-as-you-throw system is essential, stressing that businesses not adhering to this may be incorrectly classified under the automated system, leading to inaccurate billing.

“I am advising the public that if someone receives a bill of 100 or 800 naira as a petty trader, it is not normal,” he said. He urged traders to scan their billing barcodes, adding that the correct amount owed would actually range from 25,200 Naira.

The general manager had lamented the spread of misinformation, urging responsible reporting that reflects the agency’s ongoing efforts to improve waste management.

He reiterated that the agency is committed to maintaining transparency, discipline, and fairness, and urged compliance and responsible waste disposal among all businesses across Niger State.