Yan Yuqing, the Consular General of the People’s Republic of China, has reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening ties with Kogi State and announced plans to enhance trade relations by establishing connections between Kogi and two key Chinese cities.
The Consular General made this known during a bilateral meeting with Governor Usman Ododo in Lagos on Monday.
She pledged to streamline visa processing for Kogi State’s representatives to facilitate smoother cooperation and deeper engagement.
At the meeting, Governor Ododo highlighted Kogi State’s vast potential and assured of the state’s readiness to accommodate Chinese investors interested in tapping into the state’s diverse opportunities.
He underscored his administration’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment, particularly within the State Free Trade Zone and the proposed Industrial Park.
He noted that with its vast expanse of arable land, rich deposits of diverse mineral resources, abundant water bodies, and favorable climatic conditions, Kogi State stands as a prime destination for industrial and agricultural revolution in Nigeria. The state’s strategic geographical location further enhances its potential, serving as a hub that connects various regions across the country.
The Governor also pointed out that Kogi’s fertile soil and conducive weather make it an ideal location for large-scale farming and agro-industrial ventures, while its untapped mineral wealth—including iron ore, limestone, coal, and more—positions it as a powerhouse for manufacturing and mining industries.
Furthermore, the abundance of rivers and water bodies provides opportunities for irrigation, aquaculture, and hydroelectric power generation, ensuring sustainable development across sectors.
Combined with its investor-friendly policies and commitment to infrastructural development, Kogi State is uniquely poised to drive Nigeria’s economic growth through innovative industrial and agricultural initiatives.
The Governor sought partnerships with Chinese sister cities to advance his administration’s developmental blueprint, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving shared economic goals.
