By Chris Agabi
The Association of Corporate Online Editors (ACOE) anf the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) has agreed to partner in driving the country’s economic growth.
This agreement was reached during a courtesy visit to NEPZA’s Managing Director, Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, in Abuja on Tuesday by ACOE leadership.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of ACOE, Martin Odiete, highlighted the organization’s mission to uphold the highest standards of journalism in the emerging global new media landscape.
He emphasized ACOE’s unique position to support NEPZA’s objectives through digital communication and content creation expertise.
According to Odiete, the partnership will focus on enhancing NEPZA’s online visibility to drive engagement and educate stakeholders on the benefits of Nigeria’s Free Zones, adding that ACOE will utilize its expertise in digital storytelling to craft compelling narratives that effectively communicate NEPZA’s successes, opportunities and initiatives in driving economic prosperity.
ACOE also extended an invitation to NEPZA to partner as a platinum sponsor of its upcoming investiture program, positioning NEPZA as a key player in Nigeria’s economic narrative.
Additionally, ACOE requested permission for its members to tour NEPZA’s organizations outside Abuja to gather firsthand information on its activities.
Furthermore, ACOE invited the MD to appear in its monthly media parley, providing an opportunity for him to address the house and field questions from members.
Odiete noted that NEPZA’s mandate is pivotal for Nigeria’s economic trajectory, aiming to foster an enabling environment that propels economic growth and fortifies the non-oil sector.
He expressed ACOE’s commitment to leveraging digital platforms to showcase the benefits of investing in Nigeria’s Free Zones, attracting local and foreign investors.
In response, The Managing Director of Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, reaffirmed the media partnership between NEPZA and ACOE, noting “All your prayers are answered,” to assure the team of the agency’s readiness for the collaboration.
Ogunyemi revealed plans to reform the agency’s legislation and rename it to Special Economic Zone.
According to him, the current NEPZA Act, enacted in 1992 as a military decree, is outdated and no longer reflects the global best practices in special economic zones.
“We can’t continue to operate with an outdated legislation that refers to export processing zones, which have globally evolved into free trade zones and special economic zones,” Dr. Olufemi stated.
He explained that the proposed reforms would align with Nigeria’s efforts to improve its ease of doing business ranking.
The NEPZA boss noted that the Vice President had already endorsed the proposed name change to Special Economic Zone, emphasizing its expanded scope beyond export clusters.
The Managing Director emphasized that the reforms would enhance Nigeria’s business environment, attract investments, and drive economic growth.
