Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has engaged the Consular General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos for external investment.
Ododo on Monday met with Yan Yuqing, the Consular General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos.
According to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Relations, Onogwu Muhammed, this interaction aimed to strengthen friendly and economic ties, focusing on areas of mutual interest such as agriculture, commerce, manufacturing, and infrastructure development.
He added that Ododo used the opportunity to highlight Kogi’s vast potential and readiness to accommodate Chinese investors interested in tapping into the state’s diverse opportunities.
“The governor underscored his administration’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment, particularly within the State Free Trade Zone and the proposed Industrial Park,” he said.
He noted that with its vast expanse of arable land, rich deposits of diverse mineral resources, abundant water bodies, and favorable climatic conditions, Kogi State stands as a prime destination for the industrial and agricultural revolution in Nigeria.
Ododo added that the state’s strategic geographical location enhances its potential, serving as a hub that connects various regions across the country.
He also sought partnerships with Chinese sister cities to advance his administration’s developmental blueprint, emphasising the importance of collaboration in achieving shared economic goals.
In her remarks, Consular General Yan Yuqing expressed gratitude for the Governor’s visit and acknowledged the value of the discussions.
She reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening ties with Kogi State and announced plans to enhance trade relations by establishing connections between Kogi and two key Chinese cities.
Additionally, she pledged to streamline visa processing for Kogi State’s representatives to facilitate smoother cooperation and deeper engagement.
According to Muhammed, this meeting signifies a milestone in fostering stronger economic and diplomatic relations between Kogi State and the People’s Republic of China. It lays a solid foundation for future collaborations that promise to drive mutual growth and sustainable development.
