By Danjuma Amodu | February 13, 2026
The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) has called on the European Union to integrate Nigeria’s Special Economic Zones into its value chains to boost economic growth, diversification, and industrialisation.
Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, Managing Director of NEPZA, made the call during a trade and investment facilitation meeting at the European House in Abuja.
“It is an honour to speak to this important group at this important time in the history of the world economy,” Dr. Ogunyemi said.
He emphasised that Nigeria’s Free Zones can serve as useful tools for enhancing economic collaboration between the EU and Nigeria, particularly during a time of major structural transformation.
The NEPZA CEO highlighted the EU’s recent efforts to realign its economy, stressing the importance of joint action on issues affecting Europe and Africa. He noted that Africa’s reliance on raw material exports hinders industrial growth and limits human capital development, threatening supply chain sustainability.
“We understand how EU leaders have described a vision of European independence and economic strength based on partnerships that are diverse, strong, and strategically aligned, rather than on a small number of global suppliers or geopolitical arrangements,” Dr. Ogunyemi added.
He urged the EU to invest in Nigeria’s economic zones to address these challenges, citing the potential benefits of strengthening supply chains, minimising dependency, and promoting economic activity in West Africa.
The meeting was attended by EU Heads of Delegation, Ambassadors, and Representatives from the European Commission and the European External Action Service.
