The Niger State Environmental Protection Agency (NISEPA) has dismissed claims of a levy increase for petty traders, describing the viral online report as false and misleading.
Speaking at a press conference in Minna on Thursday, NISEPA’s General Manager, Dr. Abubakar Muhammad, clarified that the agency had not raised its fees beyond ₦100,000, as reported on social media. He emphasized that NISEPA follows a structured system for categorizing businesses and determining levies, which does not target petty traders.
Dr. Muhammad explained that the agency had launched a “pay-as-you-throw” initiative on October 10, 2024, specifically to support small business owners. Under this program, petty traders can buy litter bags for just ₦150, with regular waste collection by designated evacuation vans.
He stressed that the initiative is aimed at preventing incorrect billing and ensuring fairness. Any bill exceeding standard rates, he said, is likely a mistake. Affected individuals are encouraged to scan the barcode on their bills to verify accurate charges, which typically start at ₦25,200 for larger businesses—not petty traders.
Condemning the spread of misinformation, Dr. Muhammad urged the public to rely on accurate, verified information and reiterated NISEPA’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and improved waste management practices across Niger State.
