INVESTORS SEEK NATIONAL POLICY FOR FREE TRADE ZONES

DOMESTIC and international investors have called for a national policy for the operation of Free Trade Zones in the country.

Managing Director, Lekki Worldwide Investments Limited, Mr. Tajudeen Disu, who bore the minds of stakeholders in the FTZs sector, said a national policy has become necessary in order to encourage Nigerians and foreigners to invest in the sector.

Speaking at the  just ended 6th Lagos Economic Summit, Disu identified Trade Zones as the major step towards boosting the economic growth and increasing the inflow of Foreign Direct Investments (FDI). He  stressed that government should simplified business environment with clear cut operational guidelines that are  free from bureaucratic bottlenecks and unnecessary trade barriers, adding that also needed are excellent industrial facilities and security such as serviced plots, pre-built factory buildings, constant and regular electricity and water supply, good telecommunications system and specialised security arrangements.

'We have to set objectives and ensure that we work towards them. The government has a key role to play. In most places of the world, the FTZ concept had worked. They worked because the concept was driven from the top. This is a challenge for government.

'Investment is what makes an economy; and it will always translate into jobs, among others.'