Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for approving the free trade zone status for Ekiti Knowledge Zone (EKZ).

Oyebanji, who said a major condition for raising the necessary capital to achieve the zone’s objectives has been met with Buhari’s approval, noted that his government will continue to collaborate with relevant government institutions and development partners to advance the socio-economic and infrastructure development of Ekiti State.

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investments, Niyi Adebayo, in a statement on Tuesday, April 11, announced President Buhari’s approval for the free trade status for the state.

Speaking on the development, Governor Oyebanji, in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, said the approval is a necessary condition for inflow of investments into the EKZ, which will be the first service-based special economic zone and a major driver of economic growth in Ekiti State.

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He added: “The approval for the free trade zone status is one of the products of the interface, and evidence of the government’s commitment to its development plan as well at the continuity agenda.

“While the state government is appreciative of the Federal Government’s gesture, it congratulates the people of the state for the landmark achievement. It urges investors and young professionals to take advantage of the EKS.

“With the approval, a major condition for raising the necessary capital to achieve the zone’s objectives has now been met, and we expect to attract the required capital later in the year.

“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, private entities, and development partners to advance the socio-economic and infrastructure development of the state and ensuring shared prosperity for all.”

Oyebanji, therefore, expressed his appreciation to Adebayo, a former governor of Ekiti State, and the Managing Director of the National Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, and his team for their support.

The Star