The Nigeria Economic Zones Association (NEZA) has commended the managing directors of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) and the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA) on their recent call for a ten-year moratorium before the implementation of the National Tax Policy within Nigeria’s free zones.
In a statement, the Executive Secretary of the association, Mr Toyin Elegbede, said the bold and forward-thinking position is both timely and aligns with NEZA’s previously stated concerns, as expressed in the association’s official press release dated September 1, 2025.
Mr Elegbede reiterated that the abrupt implementation of the National Tax Policy without a well-defined transitional framework would be counterproductive, risking the flight of existing investments and discouraging new entrants into the scheme.
“We view the proposal for a ten-year moratorium as a strategic buffer that allows for policy harmonisation, investor engagement, regulatory clarity, and the development of a globally competitive incentives framework tailored for zone-based enterprises.” He stated.
The NEZA boss also urged NEPZA and OGFZA to continue their collaborative advocacy to preserve the integrity of the Free Zone scheme.
“We remain committed to working with all relevant authorities to ensure that no policy undermines the competitiveness and sustainability of free zones in Nigeria.” Mr Elegbede said.
Olusola Akintonde