President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to perform the groundbreaking ceremony for what is projected to become the largest cotton and polyester processing factory in the world, according to Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the former Accountant General of the Federation, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Madein, and members of the Iperu Development Association at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun said the project would be sited at the Special Agro Processing Zone near the Gateway International Airport in Iperu/Ilisan.
“In the next 30 to 45 days, Mr. President will be here to lay the foundation for the Renewed Hope Cotton Resurgent Initiative. This will be the biggest cotton and polyester processing factory in the world,” Abiodun declared.
The governor noted that the factory, which will occupy 400 hectares of land, is expected to employ approximately 250,000 people daily, making it a significant economic catalyst for the state.
“This site was chosen after the promoters assessed the entire state. They were impressed by our existing infrastructure such as the airport, the ease of access to raw materials, and our proximity to major consumer markets,” he added. “This is more than a factory; it’s the creation of a whole new town with immense economic benefits for Iperu, Remoland, Ijebu land, and Ogun State at large.”
Governor Abiodun further revealed that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has expressed interest in establishing a base in the area to provide security for the airport and the surrounding communities.
Explaining the choice of Iperu as the site for the Gateway International Airport, the governor stated that its central location makes it easily accessible from all parts of the state. He added that the 100-unit Airport Housing Estate developed by his administration would soon be inaugurated.
Highlighting ongoing developmental efforts, Abiodun said, “We’ve reconstructed township roads, renovated public schools and primary healthcare centers, and established a mother-and-child hospital. We are determined to uplift every part of the state.”
He also praised Mrs. Madein for her unblemished service to the nation and for attracting several projects to her hometown. “You’ve brought a women’s empowerment center, a mini stadium, and erosion control projects to Iperu. You are truly a daughter of the soil who served with diligence and discipline,” Abiodun remarked.
In her remarks, Mrs. Madein thanked the governor for his support, which she said contributed to her successful tenure as Accountant General.
“I’m here to give an account of my stewardship and to thank you for the enabling environment you’ve created for progress and investment. I’m proud to have represented Ogun State at the national level,” she said.
The Chairman of the Iperu Development Association, Otunba Taiwo Oyebanjo, also commended the governor and Mrs. Madein for their roles in uplifting the town.
“Their partnership has transformed Iperu socially and economically. We now have modern facilities that have improved our quality of life,” he noted.
Also speaking, the Ebi of Idena, Oba Lukman Salami, lauded the Abiodun administration for the positive changes witnessed in the community. “We have moved from being a village to becoming a modern town,” the monarch stated.
