The executive governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun has appointed Dr Hafsat Oduwole Balewa as the new Chairman of Ogun-Guangdong Free Trade Zone.
Following the appointment, prominent Nigerians which include former presidents, Olusegun Obansanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, Ogun governor, Dapo Abiodun, Ooni of Ife, Oba Ogunwusi among others have expressed their hopes in Hajia Balewa as the huncho FTZ.
Congratulating Hadjia Hafsat, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi issued a statement to felicitate with the Ogun born business woman on the new feat while also extolling her virtue.
“Dear Hadjia, please accept this achievement and its glamor as a result of your years of hard work and unquantifiable contributions to the growth of trade.” He said in a statement.
At a press conference held at Ogun-Guangdong Free Trade Zone Limited’s premises on Tuesday August 16, to usher in Hadjia’s reign, she gave a speech on her plans to take the organization to another level.
In her speech she spoke on Sustainability, stability and prosperity” noted that the partnership of China and Ogun will boost the development and growth of the host community.
The new chairman said “ The governor, due to his international exposure and wisdom, realized that this is a Cash Cow job for the people of Ogun State, I was first brought on board by His Excellency, as a director, and when the opportunity arose, he made me Chairman. I trust, this decision was mainly due to my pragmatic experience in the industry and gargantuan efforts I have displayed in my previous position”.
Hadjia further sais “As Chairman, I intend to build this corporation further, correct any ills in time past, as well as, deter untenable and inconsistent managerial practices that can bring embarrassment to Ogun State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria as a whole
“ I want to assure everyone hearing the sound of my voice, that this free Trade Zone is now paving the way for massive investments to make Ogun State the foremost State in Nigeria for ease of doing business and one that encourages SMEs. With the help of God and our various contributions, we will rise to be the best in Africa at the earliest possible time” she added.
Oba Akinde also commended the state Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on his choice of Hadjia Balewa, who the monarch described as an experienced and capable hand to oversee the company.
Also, the General manager, China Africa Free Trade Investment Company, Dr. Hanson Huang, appreciated the governor and the new chairman.
Huang further said the FTZ will continue to operate profitably for the benefit of all.
The Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone is a conglomerate of businesses housed within a free trade zone in Igbesa where a series of manufactured goods are produced for the local consumption and exports, earning revenue for the mother country – China and creating wealth, employment opportunities and reducing incessant balance of trade deficits.