French investors have expressed interest in investing in Ogun State’s transport sector, particularly the Gateway Agro-Cargo Airport, the Olokola Sea Port, and the state’s railway system.
According to a statement, former French Minister of Transport, Djebbari Jean-Baptiste, disclosed this during a visit to Governor Dapo Abiodun at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta,
Speaking to journalists after a closed-door meeting with the governor, Jean-Baptiste praised the infrastructural progress in Ogun State and highlighted its attractiveness to French businesses
“We have many French operators in transportation, logistics, and aviation. Many are interested in Nigeria, particularly Ogun State because it is seen as a dynamic and reliable partner,” he said.
The former minister revealed that his visit was a follow-up to discussions held during President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to France last December.
Jean-Baptiste disclosed that during his two-day tour, he and his team will visit the Gateway International Airport, the dry port, the seaport, and the railway system.
The former minister emphasised Ogun’s growing economy and high market demand make it a promising destination for international investments.
Governor Abiodun provided insights into his administration’s multimodal transport master plan, to boost the state’s economy. “We took advantage of the federal government’s rail infrastructure. This informed the development of our Gateway International Airport, dry port, and upcoming seaport,” the governor said.
He added that the airport, located within an aerotropolis, will feature a Special Agro-Processing Zone and a Nigeria Customs and Excise Village. While most physical constructions at the airport, including the runway and control tower, are complete, delays in installing navigational equipment have postponed its commercial operations.
Jean-Baptiste commended the governor’s leadership and vision, describing Abiodun as a man who has assembled a competent team to drive Ogun’s development. “It’s been six years since he assumed office, and the changes are massive and positive,” the former minister said.
