Lagos Moves to Curb Multiple Taxation in Hospitality Industry, sues for more collaboration among Stakeholders

By Yemisi Dada

The Lagos State Government has assured stakeholders in the hospitality and tourism sector that the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has concluded plans to harmonise tax payment in the state to ease burden of multiple taxation.

The State’s Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Special Adviser to the Governor on Taxation, Mr. Abdul Kabir Ogungbo, Chairman, Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), Mr. Ayodele Subair and others gave the assurance at the stakeholder’s  forum with the hospitality sector, themed: “Addressing current industry challenges, exploring emerging trends, understanding policy framework and unveiling collaborative opportunities within the entire hospitality value chain” held on Victoria Island.

The Commissioner in her welcome address said the state government is committed to creating an enabling environment for the hospitality sector to thrive, noting that the hospitality sector played a vital role in the economic development of the state.

Mrs Benson-Awoyinka who called for cooperation among  stakeholders in the hospitality sector noted that the ministry is reviewing its policy frameworks, to make the industry data driven with the aid of technology and new innovation in line with global best practices.

Affirming Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to develop the sector, she said: “Our policy frameworks are being continually reviewed to ensure they support growth, innovation, and sustainability. We are also focused on improving infrastructure, enhancing security, and promoting Lagos as a prime tourist destination”

The General Manager, Lagos  State Safety Commission, Mr Lanre Mojola, General Manager, Lagos State Parking Authority, Mrs Olabisi Adelabu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Transport, Mr. Sola Giwa and other who were member of panel that discussed on the topic:’ Enhancing compliance in the hospitality sector’, stressed the need for more corporation among stakeholders with a call to always operate within the confines of the law.

They reiterated the need for business owners in the hospitality sector to work together with the state government on its mandate to provide enabling environment that is safe and conductive for businesses to thrive.

Harping on the need to address the issue of multiple taxation, the Panelists sought for business owner’s corporation in tackling the menace.

Specifically, the Governor aide on Taxation, Mr Ogungbo disclosed that very soon Governor Sanwo-Olu will unveil a new platform to harmonise various tax payments which will block all leakages and avenues for multiple taxation.