The Managing Director of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority, Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, has been re-elected to the Board of the World Free Zones Organization during the organisation’s 11th Annual Congress held in Panama.
Dr. Ogunyemi secured an overwhelming 85 per cent of the total votes cast, with strong backing from African delegates as well as participants from Europe and Latin America. His latest victory follows a similar electoral success recorded in Dubai in 2024, when he was first elected to the global body’s board.
Chairman of the WFZO, Dr. Mohammed Alzarooni, described Ogunyemi’s re-election as well deserved, commending his energy, leadership and commitment during his first tenure on the board.
“I simply wish to congratulate Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi of Nigeria and all other members of the WFZO board of directors on their delightful new tenure and continued exemplary service to the world,” Alzarooni stated.
Reacting to the development, the management of NEPZA said Ogunyemi’s performance at the agency had continued to earn both local and international recognition. Speaking on behalf of the management and staff, Director of Corporate Services, Mrs. Haleema Sani Kamba, described the NEPZA boss as an excellent leader with deep knowledge of the special economic zones scheme.
“We are not surprised that the impact of his excellent service and leadership has been acknowledged and rewarded on a global stage again,” she said.
In his acceptance remarks, Ogunyemi attributed his re-election to Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to reposition its free trade zones to attract investments and drive economic growth in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration.
He said Nigeria’s free trade zones had become increasingly competitive and attractive to global investors, adding that his continued presence on the WFZO board would create more opportunities for Foreign Direct Investment across Africa.
“The World Free Zone Organization remains the melting point for Foreign Direct Investment opportunities and therefore, Nigeria and other African countries shall seize this opportunity of my being on the board to attract more FDIs to the continent,” he said.
The WFZO serves as the umbrella body for countries operating Free Trade Zones and Special Economic Zones across the world, promoting economic cooperation, investment opportunities and global partnerships.
This year’s congress was notable for the participation of two sitting presidents the Presidents of Panama and the Dominican Republic.
