Abiodun pushes for investment in mining, agriculture, and transport
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, is calling on Chinese investors to partner with the state to unlock its vast mineral and agricultural potential.
Speaking on Tuesday during a visit from Chinese Ambassador Yu Dunhai, Abiodun said the state is rich in resources like gold, limestone, granite, and kaolin, and is leading the country in cassava, eggs, poultry, fish, and cement production.
“We’re sitting on huge opportunities, and we want to partner the right way,” the governor said at his office in Abeokuta.
Illegal mining in the spotlight
While welcoming foreign investment, Abiodun called out illegal mining activities, some of which he said have involved Chinese nationals working with locals.
“We need responsible partnerships that protect our environment and support local communities,” he said.
Ogun’s growing infrastructure game
Governor Abiodun highlighted recent developments aimed at making the state more investor-friendly. These include:
-
A new world-class airport now cleared for commercial flights
-
Construction of a Dry Inland Port at Kajola
-
Plans for a deep seaport in Olokola
-
A multi-modal transport network connecting road, rail, and air
He also revealed plans to link Ogun to Lagos’ Blue Rail Line and called for more Chinese investment in agriculture, positioning the state as Nigeria’s future food basket.
China responds: We’re already here — and more are coming
Ambassador Yu Dunhai said over 160 Chinese companies are already operating in Ogun, investing more than $1 billion in the Ogun-Guangdong Free Trade Zone at Igbesa. He added that 100 more firms are preparing to launch operations.
Dunhai praised the state’s good business climate and reaffirmed China’s commitment to deepening economic ties with Nigeria — its largest trading partner in Africa.
He also issued a clear warning to Chinese businesses: obey local laws or face consequences.
Roadshow, relationships, and next steps
Governor Abiodun accepted an invitation to attend a Shandong Province roadshow, aimed at showcasing Ogun’s investment potential to Chinese stakeholders.
The visit, according to Free Trade Zone Chair Hajia Hafsat Balewa, is another step in strengthening Nigeria-China ties and boosting Ogun’s economic impact nationally.
