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Restrictions on 43 Items: It’s a Policy Mistakes As It Falls outside CBN’s Mandates- Cardoso

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By Ocheneyi Alli

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has given fresh reasons it removed the  restriction on 43 items that can be produced in Nigeria,  from accessing foreign exchange, saying it’s trade policy which falls outside its mandates.

Olayemi Cardoso, CBN Governor, said: “It is important to note that trade policy is
primarily the responsibility of the fiscal authorities, and delving into such matters falls outside the purview of the CBN.”

He  made the clarification during the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) 58th Annual Bankers’ Dinner and Grand Finale of the Institute’s 60th Anniversary.

He said: ” Allow me to provide further clarification on the issue of the 43 items.
First, it is important to note that these items were never outrightly banned by the government.

The CBN had imposed restrictions on their access to foreign exchange in the official market.

However, these restrictions resulted in increased demand for foreign exchange in the parallel market, leading to the depreciation of the exchange rate in that segment of the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM) and widening the premium between the parallel and official market.

Studies have shown that during the period when the 43
items were restricted, there was a 51.0% increase in trade evasion by importers accessing the foreign exchange market, resulting in a revenue drop of approximately US$1.4 billion, or US$275 million annually, between 2015 and 2019.

Affects Revenue Tariffs on Goods

Additionally, revenue from tariffs on goods decreased from a high of approximately US$920 million in 2011 to about US$250 million in 2017.
In 2019, the actual tariff on goods stood at US$320 million, but counter factual evidence suggests that as much as US$680 million could have been earned in the same year.

Furthermore, evidence has shown that foreign exchange restrictions had an adverse impact on Nigerian households and contributed to inflationary pressures.

The reduction in trade restrictions and levies on rice,sugar, and wheat by 50.0% had only a minimal impact on welfare, with a 0.8%
improvement, and a mere 0.4% reduction in extreme poverty.

Moreover, the benefits of trade gains for the general population
were negligible, as the average industry in Nigeria pays 13.7% more for its inputs.”

Manufacturers Apprehensive

However, local manufacturers are not happy with the removal of the ban on the 43 items, fearing  that it is capable of collapsing many industries very soon.

The Vice Chairman of Basic Metal, Iron and Steel Products sector of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN),  Mr. Lekan Adewoye, has advised the Federal Government to urgently reverse its decision to remove ban on 43 items on foreign exchange restriction by the Central Bank of Nigeria, (CBN).

Lack of consultation with MAN

Adewoye, totally condemned the new CBN policy , asserting “This directive will further kill the manufacturing industry that is already struggling to survive.

” The problem is about policy somersaults., some of our members who have outrightly invested in backward integration will now start to regret this move because everyone who can assess FOREX  will claim to be an importer, forcing sincere manufacturers to
close shop and increasing the numbers of jobless persons.”
He laments further: ” “Lack of consultation, I can speak for manufacturers because we always try our best to engage the government on some critical issues and decisions, but when some of these decisions are being taken, manufacturers are not being consulted.

“Even when the 43 items were put on the restriction list, there was no consultation. It was just at the end of the day, we felt that to a reasonable extent, the decision were in the interest of manufacturers, but there were a couple of items on that list, that some manufacturers use at that time, some of those manufacturers were also affected and government is taking a decision to remove the entire items on that list without proper consultation with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, (MAN) to even have an idea of what effect will this have on their businesses.

“I want to assure you that many industries will shutdown very soon and this will lead to lost of jobs and insecurity will be alarming in the country. Nigeria has all it needs to produce Iron Rods and other items on this list, opening up the market will be a disincentive to manufacturers that continue to put their resources and investment into growing the industry.”

Dr. Abubakar Aliyu, an ex Director-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) , amplifies Mr. Adewoye’s  concerns and said: About two months ago, CBN woke up and said that 43 items it restricted can now access foreign exchange.
This will greatly affect the MAN members companies .
He encouraged the leadership of MAN and the RMRDC to strongly  engage the Federal Government on the issue , because, it will seriously affect the performance of the sector .

Background
CBN, had in a circular in June 2015, published a list of imported goods and services that will not be eligible for foreign exchange in the Nigerian foreign currency market.

The list which was originally 41 was updated to include two more items.

Below were the list of the items:

1. Rice
2. Cement
3. Margarine
4. Palm kernel
5. Palm oil products
6. Vegetable oils
7. Meat and processed meat products
8. Vegetables and processed vegetable products
9. Poultry and processed poultry products
10. Tinned fish in sauce (Geisha)/sardine
11. Cold rolled steel sheets
12. Galvanized steel sheets
13. Roofing sheets
14. Wheelbarrows
15. Head pans
16. Metal boxes and containers
17. Enamelware
18. Steel drums
19. Steel pipes
20. Wire rods (deformed and not deformed)
21. Iron rods
22. Reinforcing bars
23. Wire mesh
24. Steel nails
25. Security and razor fencing and poles
26. Wood particle boards and panels
27. Wood fiberboards and panels
28. Plywood boards and panels
29. Wooden doors
30. Toothpicks
Glass and glassware
32. Kitchen utensils
33. Tableware
34. Tiles-vitrified and ceramic
35. Gas cylinders
36. Woven fabrics
37. Clothes
38. Plastic and rubber products
39. Polypropylene granules
40. Cellophane wrappers and bags
41. Soap and cosmetics
42. Tomatoes/tomato pastes
43. Eurobond/foreign currency bond/ share purchases.

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Business

The Buy-and-Hold Strategy for Lagos Real Estate Investors by Dennis Isong

Population is increasing, businesses are expanding, and land is becoming more valuable. If done right, a buy-and-hold strategy can secure long-term wealth for any investor.

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If you’re thinking of making serious money in Lagos real estate, you must understand one of the most reliable strategies: buy-and-hold.

This is when you buy a property, hold it for years, and allow its value to appreciate while earning rental income.

Lagos is a dynamic and ever-growing city.

Population is increasing, businesses are expanding, and land is becoming more valuable. If done right, a buy-and-hold strategy can secure long-term wealth for any investor.

Why Buy-and-Hold Works in Lagos Land and Property Appreciate Fast Lagos is a land of gold—figuratively.

With high demand and limited land space, properties in strategic locations appreciate fast.

If you bought land in Lekki Phase 1 twenty years ago, you could sell it today for more than 20 times the original price.

The earlier you buy, the better. Steady Rental Income Lagos is home to millions of people, and many prefer renting rather than buying.

A well-located property can generate steady rental income that grows over time.

The more people move into Lagos, the higher the rental demand.

Beating Inflation Nigeria’s economy has its ups and downs, but real estate always finds a way to stay ahead of inflation.

While the value of the naira fluctuates, properties continue to appreciate. This makes real estate a safe hedge against inflation.

Steps to Succeed in the Buy-and-Hold Strategy

1. Pick the Right Location Lagos has different property markets. Some areas grow faster than others.

Choose a location based on your investment goal.●      For rapid appreciation: Look at developing areas like Ibeju-Lekki, Epe, or parts of Ikorodu.●      For steady rental income: Invest in places with high demand for rentals, like Yaba, Surulere, Lekki, or Ikeja.●      For luxury and long-term gains: Consider high-end areas like Ikoyi, Banana Island, or Victoria Island.

Do your research, visit the location, and study the growth trends before investing.

2. Buy from a Trusted Source Lagos real estate is lucrative, but it’s also filled with scams.

Many investors have fallen victim to land disputes or properties with unclear titles.

Ensure that the property has proper documentation—like the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) or a Governor’s Consent.

Work with a reliable real estate professional who understands the Lagos market.

Don’t fall for “cheap deals” without verifying ownership.3. Decide Between Land or Built Property ●      Buying land is great for long-term appreciation. You can hold it for years and sell later at a higher price.●      Buying a house or apartment gives you immediate rental income while still appreciating in value.

If you have the patience to wait, land investment is powerful. If you want regular cash flow, go for rental properties.

4. Maximize Rental Income If your goal is passive income, make your property attractive to tenants. Consider:●      Security: Lagos tenants prioritize safety.●      Amenities: Good roads, water supply, and electricity boost rental value.●      Short-let options: Platforms like Airbnb can give you higher returns, especially in areas like Lekki and Victoria Island.

If your property is well-maintained, you’ll attract quality tenants and increase your rental value over time.

5. Be Patient and Think Long-Term Real estate is not a quick-money scheme. The buy-and-hold strategy requires patience. Lagos properties appreciate, but it takes time.

Many investors regret selling too early when they see the prices skyrocketing years later.

Think of real estate like fine wine—it gets better with time. Potential Risks and How to Overcome Them Government Policies Policies like land use charges or demolitions can affect investments.

Stay updated with real estate laws in Lagos. Work with professionals to ensure your property is compliant.

Maintenance Costs

 If you own rental property, you’ll need to maintain it. Set aside funds for repairs and upgrades to keep it attractive to tenants.

Bad Tenants

 Some tenants may refuse to pay or damage your property.

Screen tenants properly before renting out your property, and have a solid lease agreement.

The buy-and-hold strategy is a proven way to build wealth in Lagos real estate. It allows you to generate rental income while your property appreciates in value.

With proper planning, the right location, and patience, your investment will reward you in the long run.

So, are you ready to secure your future with Lagos real estate? Start now—because five years from today, you’ll wish you had.

Dennis Isong and team.

+2348164741041+2348028667565

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President Pledges Support for Fintech Companies As Flutterwave Seeks Listing on NGX

The CEO of Flutterwave, Agboola, said the company has made it easy for Nigerians to pay for some global services with Naira and provided payment platforms for Nigerians in the diaspora who are willing to send money to families and relatives in the country.

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▪︎In picture: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Minister for Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, Chief Executive Officer Flutterwave, Mr Olugbenga Agoola and CEO Alami Capital, Miss Olu Seun Olufemi-White, after a  Meeting at the Presidential Villa Abuja.

President Tinubu said his administration will support businesses in the financial technology sector that provide payment infrastructure services for Nigerians and Africans.

He said this when he received the leadership of Flutterwave and Alami Capital in Abuja on Saturday afternoon.

Flutterwave, a leading Fintech company founded by young Nigerians and headquartered in Lagos, operates in the U.S., Canada, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, South Africa, and 29 other African countries. Olugbenga Agboola, the CEO; Adeleke Adekoya, a co-founder; Oluwabankole Falade and Mitesh Popat, represented Flutterwave at the meeting.

Ms Oluseun Olufemi-White represented Alami Capital as its CEO. Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Mr Wale Edun led the delegation to meet President Tinubu.

Dr. Armstrong Ume Takang, the Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), and Dr. Inuwa Kashifu Abdullahi, the Director General/ Chief Executive Officer of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), also attended.

President Tinubu said Nigeria is genuinely open to business, and as President, he is determined to remove all obstacles to allow companies to thrive.

He commended Flutterwave’s commitment to building capacity in the digital economy sector, especially as it is being made possible by energetic, young Nigerians.

He said he is honoured to be the President of a country with such a youthful and resourceful population.

He said the leadership Flutterwave provides in the digital world is what Nigeria needs today to grow its economy and make life easier for most of its population.

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, said Flutterwave has made significant progress since its establishment 10 years ago.

It has created jobs and helped diversify the economy by providing innovative digital platforms and payment services in Nigeria and across Africa.

The CEO of Flutterwave, Agboola, said the company has made it easy for Nigerians to pay for some global services with Naira and provided payment platforms for Nigerians in the diaspora who are willing to send money to families and relatives in the country.

He said Flutterwave, valued at over $3 billion, is a Nigerian export and brand employing over 1,000 Nigerians.

He said the company seeks to be listed on the Nigerian Exchange and solicited the President’s support.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive of MOFI, Dr.  Armstrong Ume Takang, said that as Africa’s biggest economy, Nigeria must demonstrate its economic prowess by strategically positioning products and services by Nigerian companies, such as Flutterwave, in the homes of all Africans.

He said Flutterwave spends millions of dollars monthly on hosting services, but that money goes to other countries.

He suggested supporting Galaxy Backbone’s hosting services to enable it to handle companies like Flutterwave.

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FG Mandates IRWG to Revives over 700 Moribund Industries

The 22-member IRWG team was inaugurated in Abuja, on Thursday this week,  by Senator  John Owan Enoh, Minister of State for Industry,  and co-chaired by Francis Meshioye, President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN).

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The Director-General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has affirmed that the recently inaugurated Industrial Revolution Working Group (IRWG) by the Federal Government, will go a long way in “waking up those more than 700 industries that have been shutdown for one reason or the other across the manufacturing sector and ensure that they don’t leave the country or be shut again”.

Ajayi-Kadir, expressed the confidence during the launch of the IRWG members team, saying that the group would ignite the revival in the sector and ensure the creation of an environment that is conducive.

The 22-member IRWG team was inaugurated in Abuja, on Thursday this week,  by Senator  John Owan Enoh, Minister of State for Industry,  and co-chaired by Francis Meshioye, President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN).

Other members of the group include the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Industry,  Trade and Investment. , representatives from the Ministry of Power, the Ministry of Finance, MAN, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACIMMA), and others.

IRWG Mandates

The Minister said that the mandates of the revolution group are :

1.  Rejuvenate, innovate, and elevate Nigeria’s industrial future.

2. The IRWG would focus on addressing regulatory bottlenecks, power supply issues, and customs procedures.

3. The IRWG should anchor its efforts on four pillars which include revitalizing dormant industries, infrastructure, and energy solutions, technology innovation, access to finance, and competitiveness.

4. Conduct meticulous audits of industries that once thrived but have since stagnated.

5. Formulating bespoke intervention strategies for their resurgence.

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