The Federal Government is expected to commence construction of a proposed Border Free Trade Zone in Imeko, Imeko-Afon Local Government Area of Ogun State, in December 2026.
The announcement was made by Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, during a stakeholders’ meeting held at Onimeko Hall, Imeko.
Adeola, who is the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Ogun State, said the proposed project would be captured in the 2027 Federal Government budget.
He explained that arrangements were being made to secure land for the project, adding that the initiative was expected to transform the economic prospects of Imeko-Afon and neighbouring communities.
The proposed Border Free Trade Zone is being championed by the member representing Yewa North/Imeko-Afon Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Gboyega Nasir Isiaka.
The project is expected to promote international trade, attract local and foreign investments, create employment opportunities and accelerate industrial development across Ogun West.
Imeko-Afon’s strategic location near the Republic of Benin is considered an advantage for cross-border commercial activities, particularly in agriculture, manufacturing and agro-processing.
Speaking at the meeting, Isiaka expressed optimism that the proposed zone would generate thousands of jobs for young people and strengthen economic activities in the area.
He also commended Adeola for facilitating development projects across the local government, noting that Imeko-Afon occupies a significant portion of Ogun State’s geographical area.
The Onimeko of Imeko, Oba Benjamin Oyeditan Alabi Olanite, also commended the senator for his contributions to infrastructure development and community empowerment.
He expressed hope that the proposed free trade zone would create new economic opportunities for residents and improve the area’s commercial activities.
The meeting was attended by Ogun State Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Director-General of the Ogun State APC Campaign Council, Senator Olalekan Mustapha, and other political leaders and traditional rulers.
Meanwhile, Adeola announced plans to reconstruct eight major roads and renovate two public schools in Imeko-Afon.
The roads include Olokuta-Iwoye Road, 07 Resort Road in Ilara, Oke-Agbede-Moriwi-Iwoye Road, Yidi-Catholic Church Road, Ita-Oba Road, Old Palace Road in Idofa, Yidi-Awela Road and Masalam Road in Owode Idi-Ayin.
The two schools listed for renovation are Community High School, Iwoye, and Community Comprehensive College, Idopa.
He said construction work on the roads and schools would commence within two weeks, adding that the projects were in addition to more than 30 road interventions he had previously undertaken in the local government.
The proposed free trade zone is expected to strengthen economic activities in Ogun West, although its implementation will depend on the necessary approvals, funding and commencement of construction.
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