Economic expert Musa Audu-Abubakar has accused the Nigerian Export Processing Zone (NEPZA) in Kano of harboring illegal activity costing the government billions of naira.
Audu-Abubakar alleges that finished goods, not raw materials as intended, are being cleared at NEPZA with significantly reduced customs duties, or in some cases, none at all. He claims this is happening with the cooperation of corrupt customs officials.
“Businessmen are diverting finished products to NEPZA to exploit the lower duty rates. They pay as little as 30% compared to the standard rate, or nothing at all through bribes. This is crippling the economy!” Audu-Abubakar explained.
NEPZA, located in Kano’s Ungogo Local Government, is designed to streamline the import of raw materials for export-oriented businesses. Audu-Abubakar emphasizes that finished goods have no place in this process.
“Finished products being cleared at NEPZA is blatantly illegal,” he said. “During a recent visit, I witnessed over 10 containers of finished goods being processed in the evening. Why would finished goods be there?”
Audu-Abubakar urges the federal government to take immediate action. He proposes deploying enforcement mechanisms to ensure all finished goods go through the proper customs channels and that those involved in these schemes are held accountable.
The Generous Heart of Zazzau: Prince Usman’s Legacy of Kindness
The history of Zazzau, a powerful ancient Hausa state in modern-day Nigeria, is filled with tales of courageous warriors and astute leaders. But amongst these figures, one man stands out not for his conquests, but for the depth of his generosity and kindness: Prince Usman.
Usman, son of a ruling monarch, was known throughout Zazzau for his benevolence. Unlike other nobles who hoarded their wealth, Usman believed in sharing his fortune with those less fortunate. Stories abound of his philanthropy:
- The Open Palace: Prince Usman’s palace gates were always open to the public. The needy and hungry were welcomed for meals, and those seeking shelter were never turned away.
- A Hand Up, Not a Handout: Usman wasn’t one to simply dole out money. He believed in empowering people. He provided loans to struggling farmers and artisans, helping them get back on their feet.
- Education for All: Usman recognized the importance of education for societal progress. He funded the construction of schools throughout Zazzau, ensuring that even the poorest children had access to learning.
Usman’s generosity wasn’t limited to his own people. Traders and travelers from faraway lands were known to be treated with the same hospitality. This kindness fostered a reputation for Zazzau as a welcoming and tolerant kingdom.
Usman’s legacy extends far beyond his lifetime. His acts of charity inspired generations of Zazzau rulers to prioritize the well-being of their subjects. Even today, his name is invoked with reverence, a reminder that true leadership lies not just in power, but also in compassion.
