Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has extended a strategic appeal to Chinese investors to collaborate on unlocking the vast mineral wealth within his state. The call came during a courtesy visit from the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Yu Dunhai, at the Governor’s office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Abiodun emphasized Ogun’s abundant natural resources—including gold, clay, bitumen, limestone, kaolin, glass sand, and granite—highlighting the opportunity for more coordinated and sustainable mineral exploration through foreign partnerships. He further underscored the state’s status as a powerhouse in agriculture and non-oil sectors, citing its leading position in cassava, eggs, poultry, and fish production. The Governor also praised its fertile lands for cocoa, rubber, cashew cultivation, and noted Ogun’s standing as the top cement producer in Nigeria and third in Africa.
Addressing past issues of unregulated mining, Abiodun pointed to eco-concerns tied to illicit activities involving some Chinese nationals colluding with locals. This, he stressed, underscores the need for formal, environmentally accountable investment in the sector.
On his part, Ambassador Yu Dunhai highlighted the robust Chinese presence already established in Ogun State—some 160 Chinese firms are operating within the Ogun–Guangdong Free Trade Zone in Igbesa, contributing over US$1 billion in investments, with around 100 more companies expected to join soon. He attributed this influx to Ogun’s investor-friendly environment, favorable climate, and accommodating populace. The ambassador also acknowledged Nigeria as China’s largest trading partner in Africa and linked their expanding ties to a recent bilateral development accord between President Tinubu and President Xi Jinping.
Mineral Wealth: Ogun State hosts a variety of valuable minerals, including gold, limestone, kaolin, and more.
Strategic Appeal: Governor Abiodun invited Chinese investors to help explore these resources responsibly and sustainably.
Economic Context: Ogun is a non-oil economic leader in Nigeria, excelling in both agriculture and industrial output.
Regulatory Emphasis :The need for structured investment is clear—mining must uphold environmental standards.
Chinese Investment Footprint: With over US$1 billion already invested via more than 160 firms, Chinese participation in the state is significant and growing.
Diplomatic Momentum: Broader Nigeria–China relations continue to strengthen following recent high-level agreements.
