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Beyond Legalism in Nigeria’s Expatriate Employment Levy Debate, By Johnson Momodu
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The article “A Legal Justification for the Suspension of the Expatriate Employment Levy” by Success Chimdimma Ebulue provides the legal considerations surrounding the Expatriate Employment Levy (EEL) introduced by the Federal Government of Nigeria. While the author articulates the potential constitutional challenges faced by the EEL, it does not examine the broader context and possible implications of diminishing the importance of such policy interventions.
Firstly, the article’s focus on the constitutionality of the EEL may overlook the broader socio-economic objectives that the policy aims to achieve. The levy was initially introduced to bridge the gap between expatriates and the Nigerian labour force and address certain socio-economic considerations. By focusing predominantly on the legal dimension, we risk sidelining the policy’s potential benefits in fostering a more inclusive and equitable employment landscape in Nigeria.
Secondly, while the legal framework of any policy is paramount, it is also essential to consider the flexibility and adaptability of legal systems to accommodate innovative policy measures. The EEL represents an attempt by the Nigerian government to navigate complex socio-economic challenges. Legal systems are not static but evolve to reflect societal changes and needs. Thus, critiquing the EEL solely on the grounds of its current constitutional alignment may disregard the potential for legal reforms that can legitimize and accommodate such policies.
Moreover, the criticism of the EEL for its potential impact on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) may not fully account for the multifaceted nature of attracting and sustaining FDI. While a conducive legal environment is crucial, investors also consider factors such as the quality of the labour force, local market dynamics, and socio-economic stability. Therefore, policies aimed at enhancing local employment and socio-economic equity, if well-implemented, could, in the long run, contribute positively to the investment climate.
Furthermore, the article’s emphasis on the procedural aspects of enacting the EEL, such as the necessity for it to be passed by the National Assembly, may be valid, but it downplayed the worth of executive discretion and policymaking in responding to urgent socio-economic needs. The government’s decision to temporarily suspend the EEL in response to stakeholder feedback demonstrates a willingness to engage, consult, and refine policy measures, which is a positive aspect of democratic governance that should not be overlooked.
It is equally important to engage with the broader socio-economic context and the potential of legal systems to evolve in response to innovative policy measures. The discussion around the EEL and its implications should thus be balanced, taking into consideration both the legal challenges and the socio-economic objectives at the heart of the policy. We should appreciate the comprehensive strategy of the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) to foster a more inclusive and equitable labour market.
The government has a prerogative to implement policies that address specific national challenges. While the constitutionality of any policy is paramount, the EEL is not merely a fiscal tool but a strategic intervention aimed at encouraging the employment of local talent, thus fostering skill development and knowledge transfer within Nigeria.
The argument that the EEL might deter Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is not entirely tenable, because a nuanced approach to policy implementation can ensure that the levy does not become a hindrance to FDI. In many jurisdictions, similar policies have been successfully implemented without adversely affecting investment. The key lies in striking a balance between attracting FDI and ensuring that local labour markets benefit from foreign expertise and investment.
By incentivizing the employment of Nigerian workers, the policy would lead to a significant upskilling of the local workforce, ultimately contributing to the country’s long-term economic growth and sustainability. It is, therefore, more constructive to view the EEL as a potentially positive force for Nigeria’s socio-economic development, rather than dismissing it outright on legal and economic grounds. While the legal framework and economic implications of such policies must always be carefully considered, it is equally important to engage in constructive dialogue and seek innovative solutions that align with Nigeria’s broader development goals.
●Momodu is a public affairs commentator.
News
Army Nabs Wanted Soldier Accused Of Supplying Uniforms To Terrorists While Escaping to Cameroon
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have nabbed a soldier declared wanted by the Nigerian Army over his alleged involvement in supplying military wares to terrorist groups operating in the North-East.
The suspect, identified as 23NA/84/1939 Private Mohammed Yusuf of the Nigerian Army Ordnance Training Facility (NAOTF), Lagos, was apprehended at about 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 25, 2026 by troops of 7 Provost Group led by the Acting Commander.
Preliminary investigations revealed that before he was declared wanted by the Army, the soldier absconded from his unit and travelled to Maiduguri on July 7, where he allegedly went into hiding.
Investigators further established that he was allegedly sheltered at Gomari Costain in Jere Local Government Area of Borno State by 25NA/89/12687 Private Baba Kamal Sale of the Corps of Intelligence, Dikwa.
Acting on credible intelligence, troops of the 7 Provost Group placed the suspect under 24-hour surveillance before intercepting and arresting him at Jidari Bus Stop while he was allegedly attempting to flee to Cameroon.
The suspect is currently in the custody of the 7 Provost Group, where he is undergoing further investigation into the alleged supply of military accoutrements to terrorist elements and the possible involvement of other collaborators.Government
Military sources described the arrest as a significant breakthrough in ongoing efforts to dismantle insider networks aiding terrorist groups, adding that investigations are continuing to establish the full extent of the suspect’s activities and identify any accomplice.
Abuja Electricity Distribution Plc (AEDC) has promoted 547 employees and approved salary step increments for 579 others as part of a broad workforce development programme designed to reward outstanding performance, strengthen staff motivation and drive organisational excellence.
The exercise, which benefitted 1,126 employees, followed the successful completion of the company’s 2025 Performance Appraisal Exercise and underscores AEDC’s commitment to building a high-performing, customer-focused workforce.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of AEDC, Chijioke Okwuokenye, said the initiative reflects the company’s resolve to place employees at the heart of its transformation agenda, stressing that investment in human capital remains critical to achieving sustainable growth.
He described the promotions and salary adjustments as a recognition of diligence, professionalism and commitment, noting that the company would continue to reward excellence while creating opportunities for career advancement.
According to him, AEDC is intentionally fostering a work environment where merit, innovation, continuous learning and teamwork determine career progression, adding that employee welfare remains a key pillar of the company’s long-term strategy.
“Our people remain our greatest asset and the foundation upon which AEDC’s future will be built. This is more than a reward for performance; it is a reaffirmation of our belief that excellence should always be recognised, talent should be nurtured and hard work should create opportunities for growth,” Okwuokenye said.
He explained that the organisation is committed to providing employees with fulfilling career opportunities that enable them to maximise their potential while contributing to AEDC’s ambition of becoming one of Africa’s leading electricity distribution companies.
The AEDC chief also urged employees who were not promoted in the current appraisal cycle to remain committed, assuring them that the company’s performance management system is structured to support continuous improvement, skills development and future career progression.
AEDC said the promotion and salary increment exercise forms part of its broader strategy to cultivate a performance-driven culture, encourage professionalism and recognise employees who contribute significantly to the company’s growth.
The company added that as it continues to modernise operations, improve electricity service delivery and enhance customer experience, it will sustain investments in staff development to strengthen productivity and reinforce its position as one of Nigeria’s preferred employers in the power sector.
Some hoodlums suspected to be political thugs on Sunday stormed a permanent voter’s card (PVC) distribution centre in Okuku, the headquarters of the Odo-Otin Local Government Area of the state, and carted away two packs of PVCs.
The INEC officials were busy distributing the cards at the Oyinlola DC Primary School, Ward 2, when the thugs suddenly arrived and started shooting sporadically into the air, scaring residents and officials, and took two packs of cards and left the venue before police could arrive at the scene.
The spokesperson of the Osun State Command, Abiodun Ojelabi, said that about ten armed hoodlums invaded the centre, fired sporadically into the air and carted away three packs of PVCs before fleeing the scene.
Ojelabi disclosed that the State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, has condemned the attack and directed a comprehensive investigation to identify and prosecute those responsible.
Reacting to the development, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of INEC in the state, Oluwatoyin Babalola, condemned the attack. She said she was to get the detailed report on the attack, adding that she is yet to know the exact number of PVCs carted away by the hoodlums.
The REC, however, assured the people of the state that the governorship election would be free, fair, credible, inclusive and transparent.
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AEDC Promotes 547 Employees, Raises Pay For 579 Others
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