CYA Carpets NECA’s Criticisms Of Expatriate Employment Levy
A youth group on the aegis of ‘Consolidated Youth Assembly (CYA)’ has castigated recent criticisms by the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) regarding the Expatriate Employment Levy (EEL), saying that it is essential for enhancing skills transfer and generating revenue.
Leader of the CYA, Mallam Hamza Abdullahi, said that EEL has benefits for the Nigerian economy and a crucial step towards promoting local workforce development and reducing dependency on foreign expertise.
Abdullahi noted that contrary to NECA’s concerns about discouraging foreign investment, the EEL levy demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to fostering self-reliance and creating a conducive business environment.
According to him; “By encouraging companies to invest in local talent and skills development, we are laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth”.
Abdullahi also faulted NECA’s assertion that the EEL would hinder the government’s fiscal and monetary reforms, stressing that the levy aligns with broader efforts to strengthen the Nigerian economy.
He further said; “The EEL complements existing legislation aimed at promoting local content and immigration regulations”.
Regarding NECA’s legal objections to the levy, Abdullahi said that the government’s authority to implement such measures in pursuit of national development goals remains strong. Abdullahi said; “While we respect NECA’s concerns, it is important to recognise that the government has the constitutional mandate to enact policies that advance the public interest”.
Abdulahi therefore dismissed NECA’s predictions of negative socio-economic consequences, asserting that the EEL would ultimately benefit Nigerian workers and businesses.
In his words; “By investing in local talent and reducing reliance on expatriate labour, we are creating more opportunities for Nigerian professionals to excel in their careers.
The CYA leader reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting economic growth and job creation through initiatives like the Expatriate Employment Levy and therefore urged stakeholders to support the efforts and work together towards building a prosperous and self-reliant Nigeria.
