The Government of Ekiti State welcomes with excitement and a deep sense of appreciation news of the Free Trade Zone status granted the Ekiti knowledge Zone (EKS) by the Federal Government.
The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investments, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, had in a statement on Tuesday confirmed the Federal Government’s approval for the Free Trade Status.
The approval is a necessary condition for inflow of investments into the EKZ, which was established as a technology incubation centre and a major driver of economic growth in the state.
The Government of Ekiti State is grateful to President Mohammadu Buhari for graciously approving the Free Trade Zone status. It also extends appreciation to the Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investments, Otunba Niyi Adebayo and the Director General, National Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), Prof Adesoji Adesugba and his team for their support.
It is recalled that Governor Biodun Oyebanji stepped up strategic engagement with relevant agencies of the Federal Government on infrastructure upgrade and economic development of the state shortly after his inauguration last year. The approval for the free trade zone status is one of the products of the interface.
While the Government is appreciative of the Federal Government’s gesture, it congratulates the people of the state for the landmark achievement. It urges private entities, and young professionals to take advantage of opportunities that come with the free trade zone status.
The government of Ekiti State is committed to the infrastructure and economic development of the state and will continue to collaborate with relevant Government institutions and private entities and development partners to advance the socio- economic and infrastructure development of the state.
*Yinka Oyebode*
Special Adviser ( Media) to the Governor.
11- 04- 2023
