By: Fayia Jr. Moseray
In a bold enforcement action aimed at reinforcing tax compliance, the National Revenue Authority (NRA) on Monday, August 25, 2025, shut down the operations of Dangote Cement (SL) Ltd. at its Cline Town facility in the east end of Freetown, over the company’s failure to pay outstanding Freight Levy arrears totaling $653,300, dating back to 2020.
The decisive move is part of the NRA’s ongoing nationwide crackdown on both private and public entities defaulting on tax payments, signalling the Authority’s commitment to strengthening domestic revenue mobilization for national development.
Speaking during the enforcement action, Deputy Commissioner Tom Vandi stated that the shutdown is a direct consequence of the company’s prolonged non-compliance.
“This enforcement action is a clear message to all companies both local and foreign that the NRA is fully committed to ensuring full compliance with tax laws,” Vandi said. “No company is above the law. The days of tax evasion are over.”
He emphasized that the NRA will not hesitate to take similar action against any entity found to be in violation of its tax obligations.
The shutdown affected all major operational areas of the company, including the Administrative Office, Control Room, and Production Unit, effectively paralyzing all on-site activities.
A senior official from the NRA’s Tax Collection Department, who was present during the operation, reiterated the Authority’s firm stance.
“Dangote Cement is just one of many companies under scrutiny. We will continue to take decisive measures against any organization that fails to meet its tax responsibilities,” the official stated.
They further warned that other defaulting companies should expect similar enforcement actions if they do not settle their tax arrears promptly.
As of press time, Dangote Cement (SL) Ltd. has not issued any official statement in response to the closure.
The NRA’s action forms part of a broader effort to hold all businesses accountable and ensure that tax revenue critical to the country’s infrastructure, education, and healthcare development is not lost due to negligence or willful non-compliance.
As Sierra Leone intensifies efforts to expand its domestic revenue base, the NRA continues to urge all businesses, large and small, to fulfill their tax obligations promptly.
“Paying taxes is not just a legal obligation it’s a civic duty and a key pillar of national development,” Deputy Commissioner Vandi concluded.