Loggers seek better working environment

Loggers in Lagos are calling on the government to create a more favorable environment for their businesses to succeed.

They expressed concerns that challenges such as poor road conditions, unpredictable weather, high government levies, and rising fuel prices have increased their production costs and reduced profits.

Mr. Bogunbe Hussein, owner of Olabogunbe Ventures located in the Orisunmibare Plank Market in Agege, noted that although his family business has been successful, it is now facing significant difficulties due to the tough business climate.

He urged the government to improve infrastructure by enhancing road networks, lowering fuel prices, and reducing excessive levies to help boost sales.

“As a logger, I rely on sourcing strong woods like Iroko, Itara, Kokoigbo, and Akum from states like Ondo, Ibadan, and Ekiti. This task is increasingly challenging due to bad roads, weather changes, high levies that vary by state, and elevated fuel costs, all of which make it hard to turn a profit,” Hussein explained.

He encouraged fellow operators to remain patient and consistent, acknowledging the inherent challenges of fluctuating sales. He emphasized the need for government improvements in infrastructure, including roads and electricity.

Mr. Iyanda Arufai Babatunde, a member of the Odo Eran Plank and Building Material Association in Ogba, echoed these concerns. He pointed out that rising fuel prices, poor road conditions, and high levies from the Ministry of Forestry have driven up the cost of planks.

“These challenges have led to reduced sales, as many customers can no longer afford higher prices,” he lamented.

Mr. Idowu Jiwa, owner of ID Interior Furniture Decoration in Williams Estate, Agege, also expressed frustration over the rising costs of materials. He attributed the increase in furniture prices to naira devaluation, inflation, and the overall economic situation.

He shared his disappointment that fewer customers can afford furniture, stating, “Nigerians are struggling to meet basic needs; furniture has become secondary.”

Jiwa called on the government to address the persistent issues of fuel price hikes and naira devaluation to support the industry.