Diaspora Voices Rising Against A Huge Amount Of Tax Proposal – NIDCOM Speaks Out

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has strongly criticized the proposed $500 tourism tax for Nigerians in the diaspora returning home during the festive season, calling it ill-advised and exploitative.

Dokun Olumofin had suggested, in a formal letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, imposing a $500 tax on Nigerians and tourists visiting between November and January.

However, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the Director of Media, Public Relations, and Protocols Unit at NiDCOM, issued a statement in Abuja on Wednesday, 15 January, describing the proposal as counterproductive.

NiDCOM emphasized that such a move would discourage Nigerians from visiting home during the festive period, undermining the Commission’s efforts to encourage diaspora engagement, investment, and tourism.

The Commission highlighted that, rather than increasing barriers, governments worldwide are striving to attract more tourists and inflows, making Olumofin’s suggestion to impose a $500 tax highly concerning.

NiDCOM pointed out that diaspora remittances in 2024 alone were the highest ever, with substantial investments in various sectors of the economy. The N54 billion generated by Lagos hotels in December 2024 is an example of how the diaspora contributes positively to the economy.

The statement also cautioned against the enforcement of such a tax, warning that it could lead to corruption and damage the government’s revenue streams.

NIDCOM believes that the government should focus on providing critical infrastructure, such as security and efficient transportation, as outlined in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, to create an enabling environment for diaspora engagement.

Additionally, NIDCOM commended the Lagos State government for offering a world-class environment for Diasporans and tourists, urging other states to follow suit to foster growth in Nigeria’s tourism and entertainment sectors