The National Assembly and the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) have called on Free Trade Zone (FTZ) operators to develop and implement more effective, sustainable strategies aimed at promoting the economic growth and regeneration of the communities that host these zones.
During a two-day inspection of various FTZs in the Lekki axis of Lagos State, the leaders emphasized that operators must ensure local communities benefit significantly from the businesses operating within the zones. They stressed the importance of addressing the social and infrastructure needs of these communities to foster long-term development.
The inspection, led by NEPZA Managing Director Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi and members of the Senate Committee on Trade and Investment, included visits to the Lekki Free Zone, Dangote Free Zone Enterprise, Dangote Refinery, Lagos Free Zone, and the Lekki Deep Seaport, among other sites.
A statement issued by NEPZA’s Head of Corporate Communications, Martins Odeh, highlighted that the assessment focused on the environmental, social, and economic impacts of the operations in the surrounding areas.
Senator Sadiq Suleiman Umar, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Trade and Investment, emphasized the need for FTZ operators to actively contribute to the reduction of poverty in host communities. He expressed concern about the current state of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts in these areas, noting that a well-defined, measurable strategy for community regeneration is critical for sustainability.
“We are pleased with the significant contributions the Free Trade Zone scheme has made to our nation’s economy,” said Sen. Umar. “The Lekki Quadrant, in particular, offers an excellent environment, serving as a key economic gateway for our country. However, we would be even more gratified if host communities were given more opportunities to boost their prosperity.”
Sen. Umar further emphasized the need for accurate data on CSR interventions, including progressive reports on their impact on the well-being of local residents.
Dr. Ogunyemi, echoing the Senator’s sentiments, highlighted the importance of quickly adopting the Community Social Regeneration Concept across FTZs in the country. He credited President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his foresight in establishing the FTZs as a means of economic empowerment, noting that the regeneration of host communities will enhance mutual respect and sustainability, helping bridge the development gap within the FTZ ecosystem.
Over the past year, NEPZA has actively promoted this concept to maximize the social and economic benefits for the populations surrounding the Free Trade Zones.