By Lucy Ogalue

Kogi State is taking steps to establish an economic zone, seeking collaboration with the Nigerian Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA).

Aliyu Salami, Special Adviser to the state governor on Economy, visited NEPZA’s Managing Director, Dr Olufemi Ogunyemi, in Abuja on Monday, to discuss the initiative.

Salami emphasised the importance of the project, citing Kogi State’s rich natural resources, including solid minerals and agricultural potentials, as well as its abundant human resources.

He expressed the state’s desire to harness these opportunities to drive economic growth.

Responding, Ogunyemi expressed support for the project, highlighting the need to transform Kogi State’s raw materials into value-added products for export, generating revenue and employment opportunities.

He noted that NEPZA’s role was to license, support, and regulate special economic zones, which could foster industrialisation and technology transfer.

“Creating jobs and stimulating economic activity, producing value-added products for export and generating taxes for the state, enabling the transfer of technology to promote innovation and growth and developing surrounding communities where the zone is situated.”

Ogunyemi encouraged Kogi State to submit a proposal, promising that a team would be sent to evaluate the land and plan, providing necessary guidance.

He hoped to recommend the state for an operating license within a month. (NAN)