NIDCOM has strongly opposed the proposed $500 tourism tax on Nigerians in the Diaspora, calling it counterproductive and harmful to the nation’s economic and diplomatic image, especially during the holiday season

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has strongly criticised the proposal to impose a $500 tourism tax on Nigerians returning home during the Yuletide.

Chief Dokun Olumofin had suggested the tax on all Nigerians returning home and foreign tourists visiting between November and January, a move NIDCOM described as ill-advised and potentially exploitative.

In a statement issued by NIDCOM’s Director of Media, Public Relations, and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, the commission described the proposal as counterproductive, warning that it could discourage Nigerians abroad from returning home.

This, they argue, could harm Nigeria’s economy, which benefits significantly from Diaspora remittances and tourism spending.

The NIDCOM statement also noted that Lagos hotels alone generated N54 billion in December 2024, showing how vital the tourism and hospitality sectors are to Nigeria’s economic growth.

The commission stressed that the Nigerian government should focus on improving essential infrastructure like security and transportation, rather than burdening citizens with additional taxes.

NIDCOM applauded Lagos State’s efforts to provide a welcoming environment for Diaspora visitors and urged other states to adopt similar practices.

It also raised concerns that while other countries are lowering barriers to attract tourists, the proposed tax would only add to Nigeria’s economic and image challenges.