Chinese Investors Start Kogi Free Trade Zone Development
The Kogi State government has entered into a groundbreaking partnership with the People’s Republic of China to establish the Kogi Hunan Special Economic Zone, which has been granted Free Trade Zone status. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo made the announcement during a meeting with a high-level Chinese delegation, led by Ms. Yan Yuqing, the Consul General of China in Lagos, at the Government House in Lokoja on Tuesday.
According to a statement from the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah, the Free Trade Zone is supported by the government of Hunan Province and represents a major step in strengthening the economic ties between Nigeria and China.
State Government’s Commitment
Governor Ododo assured the delegation that the state government, in partnership with private sector investors, would provide the necessary infrastructure and regulatory environment to ensure the project’s success. “We are determined to make the Kogi Hunan Special Economic Zone a model of industrial and economic progress. We will offer all the resources needed to ensure its smooth implementation,” he stated.
China’s Support
Ms. Yan Yuqing, speaking on behalf of the Chinese government, highlighted that the Kogi Hunan Free Trade Zone aligns with China’s broader economic collaboration strategy with Nigeria. “This initiative reflects the strong economic and trade relationship between our two nations. Chinese investors are keen to engage in this project, which promises to foster sustainable development and industrial growth,” she said. She also encouraged Chinese companies in Nigeria to become involved, noting the alignment of the project with long-established bilateral agreements between the two countries.
Economic Impact and Strategic Vision
Alhaji Inda Ali Salami, Chief Economic Adviser to the Kogi State Government, described the initiative as ambitious, emphasizing that it would require a strong commitment from both the government and private sector participants. “We will adopt global best practices in Free Trade Zone development to ensure the project’s success,” he affirmed.
This development follows Governor Ododo’s recent visit to the Chinese Consulate in Lagos, where discussions were held to secure China’s support as a key investor in the project.
Ajaokuta as the Strategic Hub
The Kogi Hunan Free Trade Zone will occupy 3,000 hectares within the Ajaokuta economic corridor, a location chosen for its strategic proximity to key infrastructure. Prior to the formal agreement, the Chinese delegation toured critical industrial sites, including the Ajaokuta train station, Geregu Power Station, and ongoing gas projects, all of which are expected to play significant roles in the zone’s operations.
With the partnership now officially underway, Kogi State is poised to become a major center for industrial development and international trade, further enhancing Nigeria’s economic connectivity with global markets.
