The Oyo State Government, through its Ministry for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives, and Industry has partnered with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) to sensitize its members on the proper payment of haulage fees.
The Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Hon. Adeniyi Adebisi, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olajide Okesade, led a high-level delegation on a courtesy visit to the MAN Secretariat in Jericho, Ibadan.
Adebisi explained that the purpose of the visit was to strengthen collaboration with (MAN) and chart a path for sustainable industrial growth and structured revenue reforms in Oyo State.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to building a resilient industrial ecosystem through strategic partnerships, infrastructural development, and support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
The Commissioner highlighted key infrastructural strides under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde including improved road networks and ongoing upgrades at the Ibadan Airport- aimed at positioning the state as a leading investment hub in Nigeria.
He stated that the visit focused on promoting nano and small-scale industries and ensuring that value addition activities such as the production of Gari Oyo and turmeric are developed to a standard that makes them viable and export-worthy.
Mr. Adebisi maintained that the ministry recognized that MAN is well positioned to identify those producers engaged in these activities, adding that the government also expressed its readiness to sponsor such initiatives.
He noted that Oyo State is already working with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and invites MAN to key into this collaboration.
He added that the present government led by Governor Makinde, has made it mandatory to prioritize the welfare of factory workers.
The Commissioner emphasized the importance of a two-way partnership between government and industry for shared development.
Speaking on taxation,he hinted that the Oyo State government is ready to engage manufacturers to ensure inclusive and fair policies.
He also sought for accurate data from manufacturers for direct communication with the right stakeholders, saying that a committee on Industrial Crisis Management has been established to address worker welfare in companies and industries.
Representing the MAN Chairman for Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti States, Dr. Samuel Olawoyin, Mr. Sebastine Shuiabu expressed appreciation for the State Government’s industrial vision while noting the need for balanced policies that support growth.
MAN’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Nanzing Rimdan, assured the State of the association’s commitment to collaborating with the government to resolve infrastructure, financial, and regulatory challenges.
In another development, the ministry’s delegation also visited companies in the New Garage industrial axis.
This visit was aimed at sensitizing stakeholders on the haulage fee policy administered by the Ministry.
He explained that haulage fees on loading and offloading finished manufactured products, ranging between ₦400 and ₦6,500 depending on vehicle type, are mandatory for all goods transported in and out of Oyo State by articulated vehicles.
Though the policy has existed since the early 2000s, enforcement has been lax. The government is now addressing this through engagement and awareness. The message to companies and traders was that the levy is not a burden but a legitimate fee that contributes to state development. Companies were advised to inform customers using their own vehicles of this requirement.
The Ministry has received clearance from relevant authorities to begin enforcement, following this sensitization phase.
The delegation included officials from the Oyo State Board of Internal Revenue, Oyo State Road Transport Management Authority (OYRTMA), the Consultant on industry haulage matters and other stakeholders.
This engagement represents a major step toward aligning private sector cooperation with government policy for Oyo State’s economic progress.
