Authority Targets $22bn Investment from Delta State
As a special economic zone, the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) says it is targeting a 22 billion dollars investment from Delta state to improve trade zones scheme in the state and across the country.
The disclosure was made by the Managing Director of the agency, Prof. Adesoji Adesugba at the presentation of license to the Delta Special Economic Zone (DSEZ) in Abuja.
While commending the state government’s efforts in reactivating the free trade zones scheme, the managing director restated NEPZA’s commitment towards supporting full implementation and the success of the project.
According to him, FTZ scheme has been able to turn the tide of economic development in different nations.
He said: “We need to be very competitive and that is why NEPZA is very happy to be working with you. Everybody is talking about Lagos. There are about 22 billion dollars investments in free zones in Lagos and we believe that we can replicate what is happening in other states. Delta state stands to gain, it is well positioned and all it needs is that leadership and vision which you have shown and we pray that your successor will key into this and ensure we actualise it. NEPZA is willing, ready and capable to give you all the necessary support,’’ Adesugba said, and emphasised the need for the Nigerian market to be more competitive.
On his part, Dr Kayode Adetokunbo, the consultant for the project noted the importance of the project which include job creation for the teaming Nigerian youth among others.
Adetokunbo said the state government invested heavily on peace and security, capital investment, health, education and created an enabling environment for business to thrive.
“The opportunities are eminent, Delta is relatively safe and set for business,’’ he said.
Also speaking, Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa commended the NEPZA boss for his commitment and support towards realising the licence for the project, while calling for more collaboration.
“We are also very much involved in agriculture, and putting all these things together, I believe that we are set for this nation and for the world,’’ he added.
Okowa said in spite of the challenging times and troubles in many states of the nation, the state was relatively peaceful, providing an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
“We are ready for the partnership, not only with NEPZA but with the rest of Nigerians, particularly the organised private sector and the global community.
“And we are there as a state to ensure that we are able to provide a competitive, peaceful and welcoming environment. We will work with the rest of Nigerians to ensure that we are able to develop the human capital which will also be needed for the growth of industries. I believe that we are ready to ensure that this special economic zone works for all”, he said.
Agro Nigeria / Foluke Ibitomi
