Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has declared that the state has become the fastest-growing economy in Nigeria, with its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) quadrupling from N3.5 trillion in 2019 to N16 trillion in 2025.
Abiodun made the disclosure when he received Messrs. Fayad Fayad, Strategic Advisor, and Hassan Fayad, Public Relations and Communication Officer of Mac Group, during a courtesy visit to his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
The governor noted that Ogun has, in the last six years, recorded significant growth in economic development, infrastructure provision, and the revival of tourist attractions across the state.
“We are one of the two best-performing states in Nigeria. We are the fastest-growing economy in the country. Our economy, between 2019 and 2025, has quadrupled from N3.5 trillion to N16 trillion,” Abiodun said.
He also revealed that the state’s foremost tourist site, Olumo Rock in Abeokuta, which used to generate N20 million annually, now records the same amount weekly following its renovation.
“I was amazed at the number of people visiting Olumo Rock after its renovation. It shows that if tourist sites are functional, they will not only serve as relaxation spots but also generate substantial revenue,” he added.
While welcoming Mac Group’s pledge to invest between $1.8 billion and $2.5 billion in hospitality, leisure, and entertainment in Ogun, Abiodun assured the investors of a conducive environment to thrive.
“I don’t have any doubt about the competitive advantage of this state. All the ingredients that you need for the patronage of a large leisure facility are here. You have not made any error in coming here because Ogun State provides the best option for investments,” the governor said.
In his response, the Strategic Adviser of Mac Group, Fayad Fayad, disclosed that the firm is committing an investment that could reach $2.5 billion, with plans to build the first Disneyland-style resort in Africa within Ogun State.
“We are very happy to be here today in Ogun State; we are very proud to initiate this project. This is definitely the first project, and it is between the range of $1.8 billion to $2.5 billion. Very soon, you will hear very good news,” Fayad said.
He added: “There is an initiative that we presented to His Excellency, which is about having a Disneyland resort within Ogun State; it will be the first in Africa. It is a huge project for entertainment and tourism. There will be parks, entertainment, hotels, and water parks. Hopefully, we will work side by side with Ogun State, and the sky is the limit.”