The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the ease of doing business and creating an enabling environment for investors operating within Nigeria’s Free Trade Zones, in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu
Managing Director of NEPZA, Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, stated this while declaring open the 2025 Kano Free Trade Zone (KFTZ) Investors’ Stakeholders Forum.
Represented by the head of KFTZ Mr. Richard Bassey, Dr. Ogunyemi said NEPZA is working to enhance policy frameworks, streamline administrative procedures, and upgrade support infrastructure to ensure the efficient administration of free zones in accordance with international best practices.
He described the theme of the forum, Strengthening Partnerships for Efficient Service Delivery in the Free Trade Zone, as timely and strategic, noting that it aims to address operational gaps and remove administrative barriers that hinder smooth operations within the zone.
“The forum is very significant because it provides a platform for investors, relevant government agencies, and stakeholders to exchange ideas and explore collaborative approaches that will drive optimum production capacity and global competitiveness,
The coordinator of the the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Muhammad Dahiru Labaran represented by Ahmed B. Umar reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to working closely with KFTZ to achieve its objectives.
He described the forum as a major catalyst for attracting foreign and indigenous investors to boost Nigeria’s economy.
In his remarks, the NAFDAC Coordinator for Kano State, Ibrahim Kashim, outlined key compliance obligations for operators, including maintaining valid product registration, implementing a robust quality management system, ensuring proper labeling and traceability, and keeping accurate production and distribution records.
He identified compliance, operational challenges, capacity constraints, and regulatory gaps as major issues affecting free trade zone operations.
The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) also presented a paper titled “Environmental Impact Assessment as a Gateway to Sustainable Industrial Growth in Free Trade Zones.”
The event featured goodwill messages from investors, award presentations, and networking sessions aimed at deepening collaboration among stakeholders.
COV/Khadijah Aliyu
