The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Yu Dunhai, has described Ogun State as the leading host of Chinese enterprises in the country, commending its government for creating a favorable environment for trade and industry.
Ambassador Yu made the remark on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, during a courtesy visit to Governor Dapo Abiodun at the State House, Abeokuta. He was accompanied by the Chairman of the Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone (OGFTZ), Dr. Hafsat Balewa.
“Though I’ve only been here for half a day, I’ve already fallen in love with the state. My first impression is that this is a beautiful place — lush greenery, great weather, and very welcoming people,” Yu said.
He highlighted that Ogun hosts the largest concentration of Chinese companies in Nigeria, particularly within the OGFTZ, which currently accommodates over 100 firms. According to him, these companies have made significant contributions to Nigeria’s economy, with potential for deeper cooperation in agriculture, manufacturing, and trade.
Governor Abiodun, in his remarks, reaffirmed Ogun’s role as a non-oil-reliant economy, stressing the abundance of resources such as limestone, lithium, gold, and calcium carbonate.
“Beyond our resources, we are committed to creating an enabling environment for investors through strong public-private partnerships. This has led to the proliferation of companies in the state and significantly improved Ogun’s standing on Nigeria’s economic index,” Abiodun said.
The governor also pointed to ongoing infrastructural projects, including improved transportation networks, an approved airport for commercial aircraft, and seaport developments, which he said would further attract investment.
Dr. Hafsat Balewa, Chairman of the OGFTZ, emphasized the role of Chinese firms in boosting Nigeria’s GDP.
“We are happy to have the Chinese here. They have invested heavily in areas like Sagamu, Igbesa, and Agbara. This visit is to reiterate the strength of our bilateral relationship, which continues to thrive,” she said.
She also linked the visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent engagement with Chinese authorities, describing it as a sign of both nations’ resolve to expand economic cooperation.
The meeting ended with a renewed commitment to deepen collaboration between Ogun State and Chinese investors, underscoring the state’s growing reputation as Nigeria’s industrial hub.
