Women Agro-processors demand legislative framework, decry multiple taxation
Hudu Yakubu, Abuja.
Some Nigerian women under the umbrella of Women Agro Processors, Agric Gen and Exporters Initiative ( WAPA-GEIN) have called for appropriate legislative framework to guide activities in the agricultural sector and also decried multiple taxation.
The women noted that multiple taxation was not only the bane of development in agro processing business, but also frustrating small holder processors.
Briefing journalists in Abuja, the President of WAPA-GEIN, Esther Adebayo, said Nigerian women have shown a strong will to contribute meaningfully to building the economy, but need laws to protect their interest.
She disclosed that women processors have initiated moves to participate in agro export business in the country and sought for the support of relevant agencies of government.
Adebayo pointed out that there was also need for constitutional amendment that will compel every State of the Federation to establish functional agro-processing factories.
She further added that the challenges bedeviling the sector in the country, especially food insecurity, requires more
than lip service. She called for positive actions to tackle them.
“The women Agro-processors have initiated moves towards establishing agro export processing centres across the country.
“Our goal is to facilitate, improve and promote agricultural productivity, marketing of exportable products and sustainably move women and youths out of chronic vulnerabilities and poverty via expanded opportunities,” she emphasized.
