Over 36 Table Water Factories Shut Down in Kogi Over Multiple Taxation

The Association of Table Water Producers in Kogi State has raised concerns over the closure of more than 36 table water factories in Lokoja, blaming excessive and multiple taxation by both state and federal revenue agencies for the crisis.

In a joint statement issued on Sunday by the association’s State Chairman, Mr. Moses Momoh, and Secretary, Sadiq Uteno, the group lamented the economic hardship their members are facing due to what they described as unsustainable levies imposed on their operations.

“As of today, over 36 table water factories in Lokoja (Kogi) alone have been forced to shut down, resulting in significant job losses and economic hardship for our members,” the association said.

They listed the various charges burdening their members, including signage fees, haulage charges, environmental levies, NASDRA certification documentation fees of ₦70,000 per factory, and ₦8,400 per factory for Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) fees.

“For emblems, we are charged 17,500 naira per vehicle, branding 15,000 per vehicle haulage while 1,000 is being charged daily per vehicle,” the statement added.

According to the group, the cumulative impact of these taxes has pushed production costs beyond manageable levels, making it nearly impossible for many factory owners to remain in business.

“For instance, the cost of a bag of pure water has skyrocketed from N150 to N400 due to these taxes.”

The association said it has written several appeals to the state governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, requesting relief measures and waivers to help revive the struggling sector.

“We urge the government to take immediate action to address this issue and provide a conducive business environment for our industry to thrive.

“We equally appeal to the government to Review and rationalise the taxes and levies imposed on our industry, Provide relief and waivers to help our members recover from the devastating impact of multiple taxation and also Create a favorable business environment that promotes economic growth and job creation.”

While expressing confidence in the governor’s leadership, the group praised his administration’s people-focused approach and appealed for his intervention.

“Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is a listening governor who is more compassionate to the well-being of the people,” the statement read in part.