The Managing Director of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), Olufemi Ogunyemi, has been re-elected to the board of the World Free Zones Organisation (WFZO), following what stakeholders described as Nigeria’s growing success in regulating the Special Economic Zones scheme.
According to a statement by the Authority, Head of Corporate communications, Martins Odeh, the election took place during the 11th Annual Congress of the organisation in Panama City, where African delegates, alongside counterparts from Europe and Latin America, reportedly secured about 85 per cent of the total votes cast in favour of Ogunyemi.
The NEPZA boss had similarly secured strong continental support during his first election to the board in Dubai in 2024.
Chairman of the WFZO, Mohammed Alzarooni, described Ogunyemi’s re-election as well deserved, commending his contributions during his first tenure.
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“I simply wish to congratulate Dr Olufemi Ogunyemi of Nigeria and all other members of the WFZO board of directors on their delightful new tenure and continued exemplary service to the world,” Alzarooni said.
Management of NEPZA also praised Ogunyemi’s leadership, professionalism, and impact on the organisation.
Director of Corporate Services at NEPZA, Haleema Sani Kamba, said the agency was not surprised by the international recognition accorded to the NEPZA chief.
“We are not surprised that the impact of his excellent service and leadership has been acknowledged and rewarded on a global stage again,” she stated.
Reacting to the development, Ogunyemi expressed appreciation to members of the organisation and voting blocs for their overwhelming support.
“I wish to thank my colleagues on the board and all the well-meaning colleagues in WFZO who returned me with their votes. I shall continue to do my best to serve the organisation,” he said.
He attributed the achievement to Nigeria’s efforts at repositioning its Free Trade Zones scheme to support economic growth under the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to him, Nigeria’s free trade zones have become increasingly attractive and globally competitive.
“I have always said that the World Free Zone Organisation remains the melting point for Foreign Direct Investment opportunities and therefore, Nigeria and other African countries shall seize this opportunity of my being on the board to attract more FDIs to the continent,” Ogunyemi added.
The WFZO serves as the global umbrella body for countries operating Free Trade Zones and Special Economic Zones, with a mandate to promote partnerships, economic prosperity, and investment opportunities through collaborative frameworks.
The 2026 congress was notable for the participation of two sitting presidents, including the presidents of Panama and the Dominican Republic.
