Harsh Economy Crippling Businesses – UCCIMA President

President of Umuahia Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (UCCIMA), Chidi Aruoma, has said the prevailing harsh economic climate in the country is crippling businesses in the state.

Aruoma spoke to LEADERSHIP in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, against the background of galloping inflation in the country, appealing to the federal government to find solutions to the problem.

He blamed the situation on petroleum subsidy removal, insecurity, inconsistent economic policies, lack of incentives and multiple taxations on small businesses, and disconnect between the leaders and the people.

“Majority of the businesses, especially the small ones, are either struggling to survive or have died amidst the galloping inflation and escalating insecurity in the country,” he cried out.

“We are calling on the government to engage in constructive dialogue with the relevant stakeholders, the private sector, and the labour unions to address the concerns raised by the people.”

He also expressed concern over natural disasters, including flooding and erosion ravaging different parts of the country, which he said must be addressed urgently before they compound the situation.

“As a stakeholder, we’re always ready to partner with individuals, business enterprises, groups, and governments at all levels for the overall interest of society whenever we have contact,” he added.

BY KALU EZIYI, Umuahia

President of Umuahia Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (UCCIMA), Chidi Aruoma, has said the prevailing harsh economic climate in the country is crippling businesses in the state.

Aruoma spoke to LEADERSHIP in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, against the background of galloping inflation in the country, appealing to the federal government to find solutions to the problem.

He blamed the situation on petroleum subsidy removal, insecurity, inconsistent economic policies, lack of incentives and multiple taxations on small businesses, and disconnect between the leaders and the people.

“Majority of the businesses, especially the small ones, are either struggling to survive or have died amidst the galloping inflation and escalating insecurity in the country,” he cried out.

“We are calling on the government to engage in constructive dialogue with the relevant stakeholders, the private sector, and the labour unions to address the concerns raised by the people.”

He also expressed concern over natural disasters, including flooding and erosion ravaging different parts of the country, which he said must be addressed urgently before they compound the situation.

“As a stakeholder, we’re always ready to partner with individuals, business enterprises, groups, and governments at all levels for the overall interest of society whenever we have contact,” he added.