JUST IN: Aiyedatiwa inaugurates committee to revive Olokola Free Trade Zone

Economy & Policy, Politics

AKURE, Nigeria (NPA) — Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has inaugurated a Technical Committee on the Olokola Free Trade Zone (OKFTZ), charging it to fast-track the revival of the long-delayed project and position the state as a leading destination for industrial investment in Africa.

The governor said the committee would address critical legal, technical, infrastructural and community-related issues necessary for the reactivation of the project.

In a statement issued on Monday, Aiyedatiwa described the inauguration as a decisive step towards unlocking the economic potential of the Olokola corridor.

“For nearly two decades, the enormous potential of the Olokola corridor has remained largely untapped. Yet, our coastline holds immense opportunities for industrial growth, maritime development, investment attraction and job creation,” he said.

The governor welcomed renewed interest by the Dangote Group in developing what is projected to become Nigeria’s largest industrial and free trade hub at Olokola.

“With renewed interest from the Dangote Group, our administration is determined to ensure that all legal, technical, infrastructural and community-related issues are addressed with urgency and transparency,” he added.

Aiyedatiwa said the committee had been given a clear mandate to accelerate processes required for the project’s revival and attract local and international investors to the state.

According to him, the vision is to develop a world-class industrial ecosystem supported by modern infrastructure, independent energy solutions, efficient logistics and a business-friendly environment.

He urged members of the committee to discharge their responsibilities with patriotism, diligence and integrity.

“The future of Olokola is not just about infrastructure; it is about jobs, economic prosperity, industrialisation and sustainable development for generations of Ondo State citizens,” the governor said.

Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming economic opportunities into tangible development and positioning Ondo State as a premier destination for investment and economic growth.