Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has declared that his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development and the creation of a conducive business environment has significantly turned the state into a haven for industries.
Speaking while receiving the Distinguished Visionary Leadership Award from the Foreign Investment Network (FIN) at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Abiodun noted that more industries have established themselves in Ogun over the past six years than in any previous administration.
“We have made Ogun a haven of industries,” Abiodun said. “Through deliberate efforts in providing basic infrastructure and improving the business climate, we have attracted a record number of industries into the state.”
The governor highlighted that Ogun is one of only six states selected for the establishment of Special Agro Processing Zones in collaboration with the Federal Government, African Development Bank, African Export-Import Bank, and the Islamic Development Bank.
According to him, “We partnered with private sector players to ensure the prompt take-off of the Special Agro Processing Zone.”
Detailing initiatives aimed at promoting ease of doing business, Abiodun explained that his administration set up a Business Environment Council and a State Investment and Facilitation Agency as a one-stop shop to assist investors.
He added: “We have computerized the process of tax payment to eliminate issues of multiple taxation.”
On infrastructure achievements, Abiodun said: “We have constructed over 1,200 kilometers of roads across the state in six years. We built the best-equipped airport in Nigeria, strategically located to serve the needs of investors and residents alike.”
He further revealed that Ogun has adopted a multimodal transport system that integrates air, road, sea, and rail. “We are extending the rail line that currently stops at Agbado further into Ogun State,” he announced.
Abiodun pointed out that Ogun’s strategic location, abundant natural resources, and large population give it a competitive advantage.
He emphasized his administration’s plan to deliver the cheapest electricity to industries and residents, reinforcing the state’s attractiveness for investments.
While calling on local and international investors to explore the vast opportunities in agriculture, manufacturing, and power sectors, the governor urged the Foreign Investment Network to intensify its promotion of the state’s economic potentials globally.
He also disclosed that FIN would be involved in the planning of the upcoming State Economic Summit.
Earlier, the Chairperson of the Foreign Investment Network, Dr. Olayinka Fayomi, who led a business delegation to present the award, lauded the governor’s achievements in expanding the state’s economic frontiers.
“The governor has done remarkably well. Two years ago, we observed the positive changes he brought to Ogun, and today, we are proud to honor him with this award,” Fayomi said. “Investors are taking note of Ogun’s progress, especially in health, education, agriculture, and infrastructure.”
Fayomi revealed that the organization would present Ogun’s investment opportunities during an upcoming business summit in Oman. She added that for over 45 years, FIN has been committed to promoting and facilitating investments across Africa through its publications in English, French, and Chinese.
In his response, Governor Abiodun expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating: “This award shows that our modest efforts are being recognized. I appreciate FIN and urge them to keep helping us attract more investors to Ogun and to Nigeria at large.”
