The Niger State Government has dismissed a report by an online platform claiming that the Niger State Environmental Protection Agency (NISEPA) imposed a tax of N100,800 on petty traders in business premises, including markets, across the state’s 25 local government areas.
Addressing journalists in Minna, NISEPA’s General Manager, Dr. Abubakar Muhammad, described the report as entirely false.
He explained that the agency operates a structured system for categorising businesses and assigning levies, which are not arbitrarily imposed but based on long-standing frameworks.
Dr. Muhammad further stated that NISEPA is committed to an automated billing system designed to ensure accuracy for duly registered businesses, stressing that the process 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.
