The Federal Government plans to use the Economic Stabilisation Bills currently before the National Assembly, to boost the naira, NewsSpecng learnt.
An aspect of the bills aims to guide the operations of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Nigerian Port Authority, ensuring that all accrued revenues are collected in naira.
Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Media aide to the President disclosed this on Wednesday.
He said the bill will enable agencies to collect fees, charges, levies, and fines in naira at the applicable exchange rate, rather than solely in dollars.
This move is part of the government’s efforts to strengthen the national currency and prevent dollarisation of the economy.
“As the government wants to emphasise the use of our national currency, payments will now be made in naira, eliminating the need for dollars,” Onanuga explained.
He said the Economic Stabilisation Bills also propose amendments to the National Identity Commission Bill 2004.
The revised bill seeks to provide all Nigerians, including foreigners earning income in the country, with a registered National Identification Number (NIN).
This will enable them to be enlisted in Nigeria’s tax structure, ultimately shoring up the nation’s revenue base.
“The Economic Stabilisation Bill comprises multiple bills, including the amendment to the National Identity Management Commission Bill 2004,” Onanuga noted.
