Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ The festive season known as “Detty December” has long been a cherished period for Nigerians in the Diaspora, who return home to reunite with loved ones, celebrate the holidays, and engage with their heritage. However, a recent proposal by Chief Dokun Olumofin has ignited a heated discussion across social and political circles. His suggestion to impose a $500 tax on Nigerians abroad returning home during this period has sparked both support and outrage, revealing a sharp divide in opinions.
Chief Olumofin believes this levy could generate substantial revenue, potentially as much as $125 million (approximately N240 billion), and significantly bolster the country’s economy. In a letter addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, he argued that the proceeds could be invested in developing Nigeria as a premier global destination for festive celebrations. Drawing attention to a recent report from MO Africa Company Limited, which highlighted Lagos hotels earning a remarkable N54 billion during December 2024, Olumofin emphasized the untapped potential of this revenue stream. He envisioned these funds contributing to infrastructure development and enhancing Nigeria’s global reputation in the tourism sector.
Despite these ambitious projections, the proposal has met with significant resistance from both the government and the public. The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has categorically dismissed the idea, describing it as exploitative and counterproductive. The commission noted that Nigerians abroad already make substantial contributions to the economy, citing record remittances in 2024 and their massive investments in various sectors. Diasporans play a crucial role in driving economic growth by visiting home and spending on local goods, services, and hospitality.
NIDCOM further argued that such a tax could discourage Diasporans from returning home, undermining efforts to strengthen ties with the global Nigerian community. The commission highlighted the indirect taxes already being collected through entertainment and other services during the holiday season, suggesting that the government’s focus should remain on creating an enabling environment for visitors rather than erecting barriers.
Nigerians have expressed their opinions on social media, extending this debate into the public sphere. Proponents of the proposal assert that the proposed revenue has the potential to significantly impact the nation’s development. One user, Ekeji Giwa, described the tax as a “brilliant idea” that could provide much-needed funds for infrastructure projects. Similarly, entrepreneur Kemany_caterer saw the potential for the tax to support local businesses, particularly those catering to the tourism and entertainment sectors.
However, the overwhelming sentiment online has been one of opposition. Critics have labeled the proposal as unfair and poorly thought out. Some questioned why Nigerians should receive a different treatment, pointing out that no other country imposes such a tax on its returning citizens. Others, like Zanzone Jr., argued that Nigeria’s tourism industry is still in its infancy and not yet robust enough to justify such measures. For many, the proposal feels like an additional burden on Nigerians who are already making significant sacrifices to maintain their connections to their homeland.
Canada-based lawyer Zacheus Afolabi condemned the proposal as “exploitative” and warned that it could lead to unintended consequences. According to Afolabi, imposing such a tax would likely deter many Nigerians from visiting during the Christmas period, shifting their travel plans to other times of the year or canceling them altogether. This would result in a decline in economic activity during a critical period for local businesses. He emphasized the importance of encouraging, rather than taxing, the Diasporan community to maintain their ties to Nigeria and continue their contributions to its growth.
The proposal’s timing has also been criticized, with some arguing that it is too premature to consider such a move. While Lagos’s December revenue figures are impressive, critics note that these gains are largely confined to a few urban centers, leaving much of the country’s potential untapped. Rather than introducing new taxes, they suggest that the government focus on addressing existing challenges, such as security, infrastructure, and ease of transportation, to make Nigeria a more attractive destination for all visitors.
The ongoing debate underscores the complexity and sensitivity of engaging with Nigerians in the Diaspora. Olumofin’s proposal has undeniable potential financial benefits, but we cannot ignore the emotional and cultural impact of such a tax. For many, the annual pilgrimage home is about more than just economic activity—it is a vital opportunity to reconnect with family, celebrate traditions, and reaffirm their identity as Nigerians.
In the end, the government’s decision on this matter will likely reflect its broader priorities and approach to engaging with its citizens, both at home and abroad. Whether the proposal is ultimately adopted or discarded, it has already sparked a valuable conversation about the role of the Diasporan community in Nigeria’s future and the best ways to harness their contributions for the nation’s benefit.
