The Managing Director of the Nigerian Export Processing Zone Authority (NEPZA), Adesoji Adesugba, has announced plans to partner with NIPC in establishing three new Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in 2022. The zones will be located in Ilorin (Kwara State), Lagos, and Katsina, and are expected to significantly boost investment in the country.
"In about 30 years, Nigeria developed just two public Special Economic Zones. If we want to develop economically, we have to do much more than that — consider that within the same period, China grew its SEZs from fewer than 500 to over 6,500," said Adesugba.
"I have been mandated by the President to commence six and deliver three. I can assure you that by this time next year, we will be delivering three SEZs. This is where we will need to work very well with NIPC to promote investors into these zones," he added. He also expressed the Federal Government's desire to ensure that every state has a special economic zone to drive employment and boost SME growth.
NIPC's Executive Secretary, Ms Yewande Sadiku, assured NEPZA of the Commission's full commitment. She noted the importance of both the private and public sectors working together to promote investment and commended NEPZA's MD for his drive in developing SEZs as an engine of economic growth.
