The Nigerian Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) has granted a license (

to the Ajaokuta Free Trade Zone project. Nigeria’s long-awaited industrial revitalization plan in the Ajaokuta region received a boost on Thursday when the state Kogi officially received a newly approved license for the Ajaokuta Economic City Free Trade Zone. Stakeholders say this is a significant step towards unlocking the untapped potential of the country’s steel and mineral resources sectors.

* After receiving the official certificate

from Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, CEO of the Nigerian Export Processing Zones Authority, Governor Usman Ododo stated that the state is ready to accelerate development and attract domestic and foreign investors.

* Previously, President Abuja Tinubu approved the construction of a 4,000-hectare industrial city in Ajaokuta in November 2025.

Ododou called this development a “historic turning point” in the state’s and even the nation’s industrialization process, emphasizing that the free trade zone will help Aja Okuta reposition itself as a major economic center in West Africa. He said, “Before I answer the questions, I’d like to look at the product I want to talk about. Please show me the certificate, because this is a special product. Today is a historic day for our people.”

“About a year ago, I came here to meet with the CEO and his team to understand why the state should be considered for participation in this special project of the Aja Okuta Economic City Free Trade Zone.”

“He advised us and established several committees to ensure due diligence and compliance throughout all processes.” “When a leader truly puts the well-being of the people first, this is the result we are seeing today.”

The governor stated that the free trade zone will accelerate economic transformation and fully utilize the state’s strategic location and abundant natural resources. Bola According to him, the state borders several business centers and possesses more than 30 types of mineral resources with economic exploitation value.

* “If you look closely at

State, you’ll see it’s a unique land bestowed by God. It’s the only state in Nigeria that borders nearly ten commercial cities, including the Capital Territory. We have abundant mineral resources such as coal, iron ore, lithium, gold, and beryllium, but these resources have not yet benefited us,” he said.

* He added that this initiative will help the state realize its economic potential. “We are showing the world that we are ready to launch this project. We welcome foreign direct investment and local investors to

State,” Ododo added. “This free trade zone will be a benchmark for the entire country.”

* Regarding the closed Ajaokuta steel plant, the governor stated that the federal government is working to restore operations at the plant. “I want to emphasize that we should be aware of the current progress. Some people are unaware of the president’s current work in Ajaokuta. Investors have already shown strong interest in the plant.”

“The Ajaokuta plant will be operational by the end of the year. With the opening of the free trade zone, the project will gain momentum and contribute to the economic stability of our state,” he said. He invited journalists to visit the state and see firsthand the ongoing development projects. “I wasn’t elected to post on social media. I came to serve the people. If you want to see what we’re doing, come to Ajaokuta State and see for yourself. We will ensure your safety and provide the necessary logistical support so you can witness it firsthand,” he added.

* The governor also announced plans for an international airport to support the development of the special economic zone and fully leverage its geographical proximity to Ajaokuta.
* He stated, “This airport will not only serve local air traffic but will also cater to international routes. We hope to utilize our geographical advantage with

to address the growing air traffic needs of Kogi State.”

* He noted that the free trade zone will be an important part of his legacy. “This certificate is a victory and one of the achievements of my term. We are working hard to deliver on our campaign promises. When I leave office, this will be a valuable legacy for future generations,” he added.

* In his speech, Ogunemi described the issuance of the license as the beginning of a long journey and emphasized that the agency will support the state government in developing the area. He said, “When we first met, you were very enthusiastic about this project. I promised you that my team would do everything in its power to support it. Today, we are officially handing over the license.”

“The journey doesn’t end here. This is just the beginning of a long journey. This is a multicultural economic city with the potential to become one of Nigeria’s most successful free trade zones.”

“The head of the Nigerian Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) explained that the free trade zone model has gained global recognition and aims to attract investment, promote exports, and create jobs.”

“This system is universally applicable. The rules are largely the same in most countries, with only minor adjustments.” We are responsible not only for issuing licenses but also for providing support and oversight. We are the central liaison point. No government agency may communicate directly with the regional operator. “All matters must be handled through the Nigerian Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA),” he said.

“This system is universally applicable. The rules are largely the same in most countries, with only minor adjustments.”

The Ajaokuta Free Trade Zone is designed to complement the long-stalled Ajaokuta Steel Complex. Despite substantial government investment, the steel complex has stagnated for decades.

The free trade zone is expected to fill gaps in the development of downstream industries such as steel processing, mining, manufacturing, and logistics, while also boosting export revenue and creating jobs.In recent years, the federal government has intensified its efforts to revitalize the steel industry as part of a broader industrialization and economic diversification plan.

* This initiative also aligns with the current government’s ongoing reforms aimed at improving the investment environment, expanding the size of special economic zones, and strengthening Nigeria’s raw materials sector.

* According to PidomNigeria, with the addition of the Aja Okuta Economic Zone, the number of free trade zones licensed and regulated by the Nigerian Export Processing Zones Authority has increased from approximately 46 to 56. This expands the framework of Nigeria’s special economic zones and strengthens efforts to attract foreign investment, promote exports, and drive industrialization.

Kogi