Northern groups seek reopening of land borders

• Say continued closure adversely impacting economy
Coalition of Northern Groups (CNGs), Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and other stakeholders have urged the Federal Government to reopen the country’s land borders to boost Nigeria’s economy, saying the continued closure of the borders has had a devastating impact on the economy and livelihood of citizens.

Members of CNGs, CSOs and other stakeholders met at a town hall at Arewa House, yesterday, to deliberate on the Tax Reforms Bills and other economic policies of President Bola Tinubu, among others.

A communiqué signed by the spokesman for the northern groups, Muhammed Sanusi Ali, stated: “The continued closure of land borders has had a devastating impact on the economy and livelihoods of citizens, particularly in border communities. The town hall urges the Federal Government to reopen land borders immediately to ease economic hardship, promote trade and reduce the burden on struggling Nigerians.”

Ali added that the Federal Government should halt the proposed VAT increases and instead reduce the current VAT rate to three per cent, saying the reduction would provide relief to citizens and businesses while encouraging economic activity.

“Alternative revenue-generating strategies must be explored to avoid placing additional financial pressure on ordinary Nigerians,” he added.

The northern groups also rejected the increase in telecommunication tariffs, saying any attempt by telecommunications companies to increase tariffs would be opposed.

Speaking on the Tax Reforms Bills before the National Assembly, he said the proposed tax reform bill was unanimously rejected due to its lack of inclusivity and potential negative impact on various regions and sectors.

The communiqué noted: “The reforms must undergo thorough consultation with all regions and key stakeholders, including civil society organisations, educational institutions, and local governments, to ensure a consensus-driven and equitable approach.”