
The New Nigeria People's Party NNPP in Ondo State has praised Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for the planned development of the Olokola Free Trade Zone by the Dangote Group. Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, reaffirmed plans for a large-scale industrial and free trade zone at Olokola in Ilaje Local Government Area during a visit to the governor. Dangote described the zone as a powerful investment hub that would transform Ondo State, attract manufacturers, and reduce infrastructure constraints for investors. Peter Olagookun, the state Chairman of the NNPP, stated that this initiative, once realized, would be a lasting legacy of the Aiyedatiwa administration. He noted that the governor's developmental strides have reduced opposition criticism, with many political actors impressed by ongoing projects. Olagookun cited employment initiatives, infrastructure development, and recruitment into SUBEB, TESCOM, and community health programs as achievements. He also attributed Dangote's renewed interest to good governance, quoting Dangote as saying he brought the project back due to the state governor's good leadership. Olagookun confirmed the NNPP's active presence in Ondo State and its intention to participate in the 2027 general elections, dismissing claims of inactivity after the exit of former national leader Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
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