(SINL NIGERIA) Nigeria has again secured global recognition in the administration of Special Economic Zones, as the Managing Director of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority, Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, was re-elected to the board of the World Free Zones Organisation 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.
The victory marks his second consecutive election to the board, following his first successful outing in Dubai in 2024.
This was contained in a statement signed by Martins Odeh, Ph.D. (AD) Head, Corporate Communications.
Chairman of the WFZO, Mohammed Alzarooni, described Ogunyemi’s re-election as well deserved, commending his commitment, leadership and contributions 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.
The management of NEPZA also praised Ogunyemi’s leadership qualities and achievements, describing him as a dedicated administrator with deep knowledge of the Special Economic Zones scheme.
Speaking on behalf of the agency’s management and staff, Director of Corporate Services, Haleema Sani Kamba, said the recognition reflected the impact of Ogunyemi’s leadership at NEPZA.
“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.
Reacting to his re-election, Ogunyemi expressed appreciation to members of the organisation for the confidence reposed in him, describing the victory as a reflection of Nigeria’s progress in repositioning its Free Trade Zones to drive economic growth under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
According to him, Nigeria’s Free Trade Zones are becoming increasingly competitive and attractive to global investors.
“I have always said that 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 global umbrella body for countries operating Free Trade Zones and Special Economic Zones, promoting international partnerships aimed at enhancing economic prosperity and investment opportunities through economies of scale.
The 2026 congress was notable for the participation of two sitting presidents — the presidents of Panama and the Dominican Republic.
