CSO hails FG's move on Expatriates Employment Levy, says it will Bolster National Security

 

From Moshood Karim

Comrade Tony Erha, the National Convener of Labour & Civil Society Coalition (LASCO), has described the Expatriates Employment Levy (EEL) as a strategic move by the Federal Government aimed at bolstering national security and protecting Nigeria's pride and progress. 

According to Erha, the EEL, which was conceived in collaboration with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), has several positive implications for the nation's security architecture.

Erha explained that the initiative is empowered to enhance data collection capabilities by effectively strengthening the nation's security architecture. This implies that the EEL would help to improve the government's ability to gather and analyze data related to the movement of expatriates in and out of the country, which would be beneficial to the country's security efforts.

One of the primary targets of the EEL, according to Erha, is illegal miners, who pose a significant threat to Nigeria's natural resources and security. He cited the Zamfara mining field as an example, where illegal mining activities have wreaked havoc on local communities and the environment. Erha also referenced Oyo State, where illegal gold mining operations have posed significant challenges.

While the monetary benefits of the EEL cannot be ignored, Erha believes that the government's decision to prioritize security through this initiative demonstrates its unwavering commitment to protect Nigeria's sovereignty and promote sustainable development. By targeting illegal miners and enhancing its data collection capabilities, the government is taking steps to safeguard the country's natural resources, which will ultimately contribute to its socio-economic development.

Erha said: “Keeping meticulous tabs on every expatriate entering the country, the government can swiftly identify and address illegal activities, as well as ensure the safety and prosperity of Nigeria and its citizens.

“The Expatriates Employment Levy serves as a crucial tool for identifying and apprehending those operating outside the law.

“The implementation of this levy enables authorities to track down and dismantle illicit operations, and safeguard the state’s resources and economic stability.

“The EEL plays a pivotal role in combating threats posed by foreign entities prospecting lithium in sensitive areas like the Sambisa Forest, because by closely monitoring expatriate activity, the government can swiftly detect and neutralize any attempts to exploit Nigeria

“This proactive approach not only safeguards the nation’s resources but also ensures a safer, more prosperous future for all Nigerians.

“Its true value lies in its ability to fortify Nigeria’s security infrastructure and preserve the nation’s pride and progress.

“Through enhanced data collection and rigorous enforcement, the government can effectively root out stop the influx or infiltration of illegal immigrants, check the likely attendant illegal activities, emplace a social audit system that captures the identities of immigrants into the country [which the EEL seeks to do through data collection] and thereby safeguard Nigeria’s future for this generation and future generations."