Ogun, Chinese firm partner on free trade zone development

The Ogun State government and the New South Group management of the Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone, Igbesa, have re-affirmed their commitment to provide adequate security and develop needed infrastructure there.

This was disclosed at the weekend by the new managers and operator of the zone, Guangdong New South Group, following a meeting with officials of the Amosun administration led by Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Taiwo Adeoluwa.

A statement by the zone’s management said: “The New South Group is appreciative of the support from the Ogun State Government and Federal Government agencies to ensure a systematic and sustained growth and development of business in the zone. This support has in no small way contributed to the smooth operation of business enterprises in the zone.

“We are already making efforts to attract more foreign investments to the zone, with two of them now in the process of registration, while about 10 new investors from China have begun moves to visit the zone.”

Expressing commitment to the infrastructural development of the zone, the Chairman of New South Group, Mr. Chen Yuejin, said: “We have designed our short-term planning for the provision of infrastructure neglected by former managers, by building a new main gate, new office building for our members of staff and resident government agencies, comfortable residence for our members of staff and resident government agencies, well-equipped medical centre, leisure and entertainment centre, sports centre and others.

“We are also co-operating with the Ogun State Government on the construction and expansion of the road connecting the zone to Lagos. We have also discussed with the state government and other relevant security agencies for strengthening the security within the zone to ensure all-round safety of property and persons doing business in the zone.”

Expressing belief in the ability of Guangdong New South Group to develop the zone, Adeoluwa said contrary to allegations of arbitrariness, abuse of power and unfriendliness to foreign investors, levelled by former operators of the zone, the Ogun State Government was indeed investor-friendly and happy to work with genuine investors, either from within Nigeria or from any part of the world.