Kogi State is on the brink of a major economic breakthrough as the Ajaokuta Economic City, set to host the Kogi-Hunan Free Trade Zone, prepares to commence operations in 2026. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo announced that the project’s groundbreaking is scheduled for the second quarter of this year, marking the start of what he described as a “historic turning point” for the state and Nigeria’s industrial ambitions.
The announcement followed the official presentation of the Declaration Certificate, designating Ajaokuta Economic City as a Free Trade Zone. The certificate was handed over at the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) headquarters in Abuja by its Managing Director, Olufemi Ogunyemi, after federal approval.
Governor Ododo said the Free Trade Zone status offers a strong legal and investment framework, poised to attract domestic and international investors, create thousands of jobs, and drive industrial growth in Kogi.
“This is a landmark moment for our people,” the governor said. “Last year, I personally made the case for Kogi State to host this transformative project. Today, that vision is becoming a reality. Leadership that puts the people first yields results—and we are seeing that unfold before our eyes.”
Ododo highlighted Kogi’s strategic advantage, noting its proximity to nearly ten commercial centres, including the Federal Capital Territory, and its wealth of mineral resources. “Our state is blessed with over 30 solid minerals, including coal, iron ore, lithium, gold, and beryllium. For too long, these resources have lain untapped. This economic city changes that narrative,” he said.
The governor emphasized that the initiative would unlock the state’s economic potential and position Ajaokuta as a regional industrial hub, contributing to Nigeria’s broader economic transformation agenda. He also noted that the federal government is actively working to revive existing facilities in Ajaokuta.
“As we speak, investors are already assessing the plant. By the end of this year, Ajaokuta will be operational. This Free Trade Zone will not just attract investment—it will redefine economic sustainability for the region,” Ododo said.
NEPZA Managing Director Ogunyemi described the certificate issuance as the beginning of a long-term journey. “This is a multi-sectoral economic city with the potential to become one of Nigeria’s most successful Free Trade Zones. The model is globally recognized for attracting investment, promoting exports, and creating jobs,” he said.
With Ajaokuta Economic City, Nigeria’s network of Free Trade Zones now stands at 46, expanding the country’s special economic zones framework and reinforcing its efforts to draw foreign investment, boost exports, and accelerate industrialization ahead of the project’s 2026 launch.
Governor Ododo said the initiative signals a new era for Kogi State: “This is more than a project—it is the dawn of an economic revolution. Ajaokuta is poised to become a major industrial hub not just in Nigeria, but across West Africa.”
Ajaokuta Economic City Set to Transform Kogi Economy
