Kogi State Secures Major Chinese Investment For Free Trade Zone Development
In a landmark economic breakthrough, the Kogi State Government has signed an agreement with the People’s Republic of China for the establishment of the Kogi Hunan Special Economic Zone, designated as a Free Trade Zone (FTZ).
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo made this announcement while hosting a high-level Chinese delegation led by the Consul General of China in Lagos, Ms. Yan Yuqing, at the Government House, Lokoja.
Assuring the delegation of the state’s full commitment to the project, Governor Ododo stated:
“We are determined to make the Kogi Hunan Special Economic Zone a model of industrial transformation. All necessary infrastructure and regulatory frameworks will be put in place to guarantee a smooth takeoff and successful execution of the project.”
The Chinese government-backed initiative, spearheaded by Hunan Province, aims to strengthen bilateral trade and investment ties between Nigeria and China. Ms. Yan Yuqing emphasized the project’s significance, describing it as a strategic collaboration that will drive industrial development in Kogi State.
The Chief Economic Adviser to the Kogi State Government, Alhaji Inda Ali Salami, described the FTZ as a bold step towards positioning Kogi as a hub for industrialization and international trade. He affirmed that the state government and private sector partners will apply global best practices to ensure the project’s sustainability.
Ahead of the agreement, Governor Ododo and members of his economic team visited the Chinese Consular Office in Lagos to engage investors and secure strategic partnerships.
The Kogi Hunan Special Economic Zone, situated on 3,000 hectares in Ajaokuta, is expected to attract major industries and boost the state’s economic landscape. During their visit, the Chinese delegation toured key infrastructure, including the Ajaokuta train station, Geregu Power Station, and ongoing gas projects, which will play a crucial role in the success of the FTZ.
This milestone agreement marks a new chapter in Kogi State’s economic growth, reinforcing its position as a destination for foreign investment and industrial expansion.
