NEPZA, C/Rivers in Talks to Resuscitate Moribund Tinapa FTZ
By Patience Ikpeme
The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) and the Cross Rivers State Government have agreed to revive the once-moribund Tinapa Free Trade Zone in Cross River state.
This collaboration aims to attract investments, promote industrialization, and revitalize the entertainment industry within the area.
Dr. Martins Odeh, NEPZA’s Head of Corporate Communications, in a statement confirmed that the decision was taken during a courtesy visit by NEPZA’s Managing Director, Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, to Governor Bassey Otu in Calabar.
According to Odeh, the agreement was reached to jointly work towards revamping the Tinapa Free Trade Zone.
Dr. Ogunyemi expressed his enthusiasm for the state’s efforts to revive the unique free trade zone that was primarily established to serve the entertainment industry. In addition, he pledged NEPZA’s support and cooperation to ensure the successful revival of the nearly inactive Tinapa Free Trade Zone and its subsequent positive impact on Nigeria’s film industry.
The NEPZA boss also emphasized the importance of the state government’s increased interest and involvement in the Calabar Free Trade Zone. He added that such participation would be essential for the advancement and preservation of the zone.
Dr. Ogunyemi further appealed to the state government to address the activities of unwanted tax operators in the state, as their actions frequently undermined the incentives provided to freezone operators and enterprises under the NEPZA Act.
Responding to the NEPZA managing director’s remarks, Governor Otu expressed his delight and willingness to foster a stronger partnership between the state and NEPZA. He acknowledged that no state government seeking rapid economic development could overlook the benefits of an alliance with NEPZA.
Representing the governor, Deputy Governor Peter Odey requested NEPZA’s assistance and cooperation to expedite the revival of the Tinapa Free Trade Zone. He also called for a review of the accumulated unpaid Tinapa Licence Renewal fees, which would enable the redirecting of limited funds towards the redevelopment of the zone, which suffered vandalism during the “End SARS” national protests.
Governor Otu emphasized that peace, stability, and the functionality of the investors and the Calabar Free Trade Zone were top priorities for the state. He recognized the employment opportunities afforded to locals by the zone and expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his support in attracting foreign direct investment and sustaining the free trade scheme for the country’s industrialization process.
The governor assured that the state was committed to partnering with federal agencies that would accelerate the development of Cross Rivers State.
The revival of the Tinapa Free Trade Zone signifies a significant step towards economic growth, job creation, and the realization of Nigeria’s industrial potential. With the commitment and collaboration between NEPZA and the Cross Rivers State Government, the future of Tinapa is set to flourish once again.
