Kogi Hunan Free Trade Zone Takes Off with Major Chinese Investment
By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
Lokoja, Kogi State – February 25, 2025
The Kogi State government has formalized a landmark partnership with the People’s Republic of China for the establishment of the Kogi Hunan Special Economic Zone, granting it Free Trade Zone status.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo announced the development while receiving a high-powered Chinese delegation led by Ms. Yan Yuqing, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, at the Government House in Lokoja on Tuesday.
According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah, the Free Trade Zone, which is backed by the government of Hunan Province, marks a significant step in deepening economic ties between Nigeria and China.
State Government’s Commitment
Governor Ododo assured the delegation that the state government, in collaboration with private sector partners, would provide the necessary infrastructure and regulatory framework for the project’s smooth takeoff.
“We are committed to making the Kogi Hunan Special Economic Zone a model of industrial and economic transformation. Everything required for the seamless execution of this project will be provided to ensure its success,” he affirmed.
China’s Endorsement
Speaking on behalf of the Chinese government, Ms. Yan Yuqing emphasized that the project aligns with China’s broader economic cooperation strategy with Nigeria.
“The Kogi Hunan Free Trade Zone is a strategic initiative that reflects the deep economic and trade ties between China and Nigeria. Our investors are eager to explore and contribute to this partnership to drive sustainable development and industrial growth,” she stated.
She also encouraged Chinese businesses in Nigeria to key into the project, noting that it aligns with long-standing bilateral agreements between both nations.
Economic Impact & Strategic Vision
Alhaji Inda Ali Salami, Chief Economic Adviser to the Kogi State Government, described the project as ambitious, requiring full commitment from both the state government and private sector stakeholders.
“We will leverage global best practices in Free Trade Zone development to ensure the project’s success,” he assured.
The initiative follows Governor Ododo’s recent visit to the Chinese Consulate in Lagos, where discussions were held to secure China’s support as a core investor in the Free Trade Zone.
Ajaokuta as the Strategic Hub
The Kogi Hunan Free Trade Zone will be situated on 3,000 hectares of land within the Ajaokuta economic development corridor—a location strategically selected to maximize access to existing infrastructure.
Before the formal agreement, the Chinese delegation toured key industrial sites, including the Ajaokuta train station, Geregu Power Station, and ongoing gas projects—all of which are expected to play a critical role in the Free Trade Zone’s operations.
With this partnership now in motion, Kogi State is set to emerge as a major industrial and trade hub, further strengthening Nigeria’s economic integration with global markets.