Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has said the Ajaokuta Economic City will be fully operational by the end of 2026.
He made the statement during the historic handover of the license for the Ajaokuta Free Trade Zone at the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, February 26.
Governor Ododo described the license presentation as a “historic achievement.” He expressed gratitude to NEPZA Managing Director Olufemi Ogunyemi for enabling the milestone.
He also thanked his team and other leaders who ensured the project reached this stage.
“AJaokuta will be up and running by the end of the year,” he said. “The Free Trade Zone will attract investors and boost Kogi State’s economy. This project is a milestone for both the state and Nigeria’s broader economic growth.”
Fast-Tracking Ajaokuta Economic City
The Governor highlighted that multiple committees fast-tracked the Ajaokuta project. They ensured due process and readiness to welcome local and foreign investors. He stressed that Kogi State’s location, bordering 10 commercial cities including the FCT, and its rich mineral resources makes it an ideal hub for trade and investment.
Governor Ododo acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms, which established Free Trade Zones in Nigeria. He noted that the project fulfills the President’s 2023 campaign promise to promote regional prosperity.
He invited investors and business leaders to visit Kogi State. “We will provide all necessary logistics for visitors to observe progress without interference,” he said.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The Governor emphasised that Ajaokuta Economic City will create jobs, facilitate trade, and improve living conditions for residents. He said the project forms part of a larger plan to enhance Kogi State’s commercial appeal and foster sustainable economic growth.
NEPZA Managing Director Olufemi Ogunyemi welcomed Governor Ododo and pledged the authority’s support. He explained that NEPZA, established under 1992 legislation, handles all licensing, monitoring, and facilitation for Free Trade Zone projects.
READ ALSO:
- Nigeria Records 21% Surge in Non-Oil Trade Exports
- NEPZA Enforces 10-year Ban on Strikes, Lockouts at Dangote Refinery, Other Free Zones
- NEPZA, Dangote Refinery Back Move to Cut Fuel Prices
- Nigeria Foils Smuggling of Over 10,000 Donkey Genitals
Ogunyemi stated that NEPZA will coordinate communications from other government agencies to avoid delays.
He described the license handover as the start of a long journey for Kogi State and stressed that the Free Trade Zone will follow global best practices adapted to Nigeria’s context.
AJaokuta Free Trade Zone: The Numbers
The 4,000-hectare Ajaokuta Free Trade Zone is expected to attract investors across multiple sectors. Analysts predict it will create thousands of jobs and strengthen Kogi State’s economy.
Governor Ododo concluded by urging all stakeholders to work in partnership to ensure the project reaches its full potential.
He said Ajaokuta Economic City will reinforce Kogi State’s position as a strategic commercial and industrial hub, sending a strong signal that Nigeria is open for business.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
