By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has officially unveiled the Ajaokuta Economic City, also known as the Kogi–Hunan Free Trade Zone, describing it as a historic leap that signals the dawn of a new economic era for Kogi State and Nigeria at large.
Speaking with confidence and optimism at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Governor Ododo declared that the Free Trade Zone represents one of the most visionary economic projects in Nigeria’s recent history, with the capacity to redefine industrialization, job creation, global trade integration, and technological advancement for generations to come.
“This is the birth of a new economic engine for our people,” the Governor said. “We are today planting the seed of generational prosperity.”
Governor Ododo revealed that the project emerged after months of rigorous technical assessments, high-level intergovernmental collaborations, strategic consultations with investors, and deep engagements with development partners from the People’s Republic of China. He emphasized that the formal approval of the project reflects the growing confidence of both local and international investors in Kogi State’s economic vision.
The Governor paid glowing tribute to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his swift approval and consistent support of the project and the people of Kogi State, describing it as clear evidence of the President’s commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda and his belief in Kogi as Nigeria’s next major industrial hub.
In his words “Mr. President’s leadership has been inspiring. His love and confidence in Kogi State have strengthened our resolve to industrialize and attain economic independence,” Ododo said.
He also commended critical institutional partners including the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), NACCIMA, NEZA, the Central Bank of Nigeria, the IRS Group, and private sector investors for their technical guidance and unwavering belief in the project.
Highlighting Kogi’s strategic advantage, Governor Ododo described the state as Nigeria’s natural logistics heart, bordered by ten states including the Federal Capital Territory. He noted that Ajaokuta hosts Africa’s largest steel complex by design, while Lokoja remains home to the world-famous confluence of Rivers Niger and Benue, unique assets that position Kogi as the ideal location for a world-class Free Trade Zone.
On security, the Governor gave firm assurances that investments within the Ajaokuta Economic City would be fully protected, revealing that his administration has intensified intelligence operations, surveillance systems, and collaboration with national security agencies. According to him, the zone will operate under a dedicated security architecture to guarantee the safety of lives, infrastructure, and capital.
Governor Ododo further disclosed that the Free Trade Zone will unlock massive opportunities in manufacturing, agro-processing, logistics, technology, and innovation. He added that Kogi’s universities and polytechnics, including the Federal University Lokoja, Prince Abubakar Audu University Anyigba, CUSTECH Osara, Kogi State University Kabba, and others will play a critical role in producing a skilled, globally competitive workforce to serve the industries that will thrive within the zone.
“This project tells the world that Kogi State is ready to lead, ready to innovate, ready to industrialize, and ready to compete globally,” the Governor declared.
He concluded by extending an open invitation to investors across the globe to seize the limitless opportunities within the Ajaokuta Economic City, assuring them of investor-friendly policies, a secure environment, and an industrious population.
“With this project, we are building a more prosperous Kogi and a stronger Nigeria,” Ododo affirmed.
The unveiling of the Kogi–Hunan Free Trade Zone marks a defining moment in the economic history of Kogi State, positioning it as a rising epicenter