NEZA Backs Free Zone Regulators’ Moratorium Demand Before NTP Implementation

The Nigeria Economic Zones Association (NEZA) has backed the Managing Directors of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) and the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA) on their recent call for a ten-year moratorium before the implementation of the National Tax Policy (NTP) within Nigeria’s Free Zones.

This bold and forward-thinking position is both timely and aligns with NEZA’s previously stated concerns, as expressed in our official press release dated September 1, 2025, according to a statement by I.O. Elegbede, Executive Secretary of NEZA.

NEZA reiterated that abrupt implementation of the NTP without a well-defined transitional framework would be counterproductive, risking the flight of existing investments and discouraging new entrants into the scheme.

“We view the proposal for a ten-year moratorium as a strategic buffer that allows for policy harmonisation, investor engagement, regulatory clarity, and the development of a globally competitive incentives framework tailored for zone-based enterprises.

“NEZA urges NEPZA and OGFZA to continue their collaborative advocacy to preserve the integrity of the Free Zone scheme. We remain committed to working with all relevant authorities to ensure that no policy undermines the competitiveness and sustainability of Free Zones in Nigeria”, NEZA stated.