The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association, NECA, has commended the Federal Government for suspending the implementation of the Expatriate Employment Levy, EEL.
NECA’s director-general, Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, gave the commendation in a statement on Sunday in Lagos.
“We commend the Minister of Interior and Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment for their roles played 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, “ he said.
The director-general urged the government to deepen engagement with stakeholders including Organised Private Sector, OPS.
Mr Oyerinde said: “We are always open to engage the government at all levels and the proposal for stakeholders engagement on the issue is highly welcome.
“We urge an inclusive engagement with members of the OPSN, with the view of harvesting workable solutions and options for a win-win position for the economy and the private sector.”
BRANDPOWER reports that the government suspended the implementation of the EEL following concerns raised by stakeholders.
It resolved to do so at a meeting held on March 8, by the minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo with a delegation led by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite.
Director, Press and Public Relations in the Ministry of Interior, Ozoya Imohimi announced this in a statement on Friday night.
He said the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo had met with a delegation led by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mrs Doris Uzoka-Anite, to address concerns and seek clarification on the recently launched Expatriate Employment Levy (EEL) guidelines.
“The aim of the meeting which held on Friday 8th March, 2024 in a Abuja was to foster constructive dialogue and explore ways to enhance the implementation of the policy while ensuring the welfare of Nigerians and promoting investment.
“However, it was resolved at the meeting that the implementation of the policy should be put on hold for further dialogue among stakeholders”, he stated.
During the discussion, Dr. Tunji-Ojo stressed the Federal Government’s commitment to listening to stakeholders and engaging in meaningful dialogue.
He also noted the importance of striking a balance between attracting foreign investment and prioritising human capital development to benefit Nigerians.
“We understand the concerns raised by stakeholders, and we are committed to finding solutions that promote investment while safeguarding the interests of Nigerians,” the Minister said, adding that the EEL policy was initiated to discourage abuse of the Expatriate quota system and promote the development of the local workforce.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo further reiterated government’s focus on security and economic prosperity, emphasising the need for transparent and law-abiding business practices.
He assured stakeholders of the Ministry’s willingness to engage further and find mutually acceptable solutions.
In her remarks, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Uzoka-Anite, called for more collaboration between the government and private sector to ensure sustainable growth and create a conducive business environment.
