The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) is targeting 22 billion dollars in investment from Delta as a special economic zone.
The Managing Director of the agency, Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, made this known at the presentation of the license to the Delta Special Economic Zone (DSEZ) on Wednesday in Abuja.
While commending the state government’s efforts in reactivating the free trade zones scheme, the managing director restated NEPZA’s commitment to supporting full implementation and the success of the project.
According to him, the Free Trade Zones scheme has been able to turn the tide of economic development in different nations.
“We need to be very competitive and that is why NEPZA is very happy to be working with you,” he said.
“Everybody is talking about Lagos. There are about 22 billion dollars in investments in free zones in Lagos and we believe that we can replicate what is happening in other states.
“Delta stands to gain, it is well positioned and all it needs is that leadership and vision which you have shown and we pray that your successor will key into this and ensure we actualize it.
”NEPZA is willing, ready, and capable to give you all the necessary support,’’ Adesugba said.
While emphasizing the need for the Nigerian market to be more competitive, Adesugba said that the free trade zones scheme turned the tides of economic development of different nations.
Also speaking, Dr Kayode Adetokunbo, the consultant for the project noted the importance of the project which includes creating job creation for the teaming Nigerian youth among others.
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Adetokunbo said the state government invested heavily in peace and security, capital investment, health, and education and has created the enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
“The opportunities are eminent, Delta is relatively safe and set for business,’’ he said.
Also, Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa commended the NEPZA boss for his commitment and support towards realizing the license for the project, while calling for more collaboration.
According to him, the state has a great advantage as it produces a lot of gas and oil.
“We are also very much involved in agriculture and putting all these things together, I believe that we are set for this nation and for the world,’’ he added.
Okowa said in spite of the challenging times and troubles in many states of the nation, the state was relatively peaceful and has provided an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
“We are ready for the partnership, not only with NEPZA but with the rest of Nigerians, particularly the organized private sector and the global community,” he said.
“And we are there as a state to ensure that we are able to provide a competitive, peaceful, and welcoming environment” he added.
” We will work with the rest of Nigerians to ensure that we are able to develop the human capital which will also be needed for the growth of industries”
“I believe that we are ready to ensure that this special economic zone works for all,’’ Okowa said.
