Income merely brought into Nigeria isn’t taxable, Presidency debunks diaspora tax myth

Abdullateef Fowewe

Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy & Tax Reforms Committee, has on Sunday clarified key facts about the proposed tax reforms, emphasising that diaspora Nigerians will not face taxes on foreign income or remittances sent home.

Oyedele’s statement, part of his “FACT NOT FEAR” public education series (Issue #2), directly addresses circulating fears with a clear breakdown of the law.

He noted “DIASPORA NIGERIANS
❌ THE FEAR:
Diaspora Nigerians will be taxed on their foreign income and remittances.
✅ THE FACT:
• Income merely brought into or received in Nigeria is NOT taxable.
• Tax is chargeable only on income, profits, or gains accruing in or derived from Nigeria.
• New provisions provide a clearer exemption for persons resident outside Nigeria.
• Unilateral tax relief is expressly provided to protect resident taxpayers from double taxation.”

He summed up the bottom line,“The law is clearer now to exempt non-residents from tax on foreign income brought in, with safeguards against double taxation for residents.”

Oyedele wrapped, “Evidence beats emotion. If they make a claim, ask them: ‘Where is it in the law?’”