The Federal Government, acting through the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, was commended by the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association for suspending the implementation of the Expatriate Employment Levy.

Through the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, President Bola Tinubu issued the Expatriate Employment Levy.

On the other hand, the charge levied on companies that employ foreign nationals is meant to encourage the sharing of skills, economic equilibrium, and industry cooperation. Other nations have implemented similar policies.

The tax, which can be between $10,000 and $15,000 per year, mandates that foreign nationals enter and depart the country using an EEL card. Based on offshore earnings, it qualifies as a business expense that is tax deductible.

The levy was condemned by members of the Organised Private Sector. Albeit, the president later ordered the suspension of the levy.

According to Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde,the Director -General of NECA, stressed that, “We commend the Minister of Interior and the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment for their roles in putting the EEL on hold. While we appreciate the objectives of the scheme and the need to address gaps in the management of expatriate employment in Nigeria, the decision by the Government is nothing short of genuine concern for the plight of organised businesses.

“This has further affirmed this administration as a listening one. The speed of response to organised businesses’ concern was commendable and worthy of note.”

Speaking further on the need to build stronger engagement with stakeholders, the NECA boss noted “We are always open to engaging the Government at all levels and the proposal for stakeholders’ engagement on the issue is highly welcome.