The newly appointed Managing Director of the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA), Mr Bamanga Jada Usman has disclosed that the Agency under his watch will undergo transformation that will grow the country’s economy and gain global recognition.
Speaking on Wednesday in Abuja while resuming office, Usman said OGFZA will undergo a transformative rebranding. “This is not merely a cosmetic change but a strategic move to resonate with our multinational stakeholders and reflect our global ambitions.
“A pivotal aspect of this rebranding will be the establishment of foreign investment offices overseas, ensuring that potential investors have immediate access to us, and fostering smoother coordination and correspondence” he stated.
In repositioning the Agency for rapid economic growth, Usman revealed that “we will commit to transforming the Oil and Gas Free Zones into economic catalysts by streamlining processes, promoting transparency, and reducing bureaucracy. Our goal is to instill trust, attract investments, and contribute to Nigeria’s GDP by ensuring operational efficiency.
“We will commit to elevating our infrastructure to international standards, working alongside stakeholders. Addressing existing challenges, such as deteriorating roads and inconsistent power supply, is paramount to fortifying Nigeria’s global industrial stance and resilience against economic upheavals.
“Under our guidance, we will commit to revisiting and updating the regulatory framework to resonate with the evolving industry needs, ensuring alignment with global best practices”.
He explained that in adherence to the Nigerian Content Act, “we edge our unwavering commitment to promote local content across the value chain. Our focus remains on t technology transfer, skills acquisition, and bolstering local businesses, thereby amplifying the nation’s talent pool and benefits.
“As stewards of the environment and local communities, we will commit to a growth path that balances industry advancements with ecological mindfulness. In alignment with the President’s economic vision, we pledge to cultivate a production-based economy resilient to global uncertainties”.
“We will dedicate ourselves to fostering an environment conducive to investors, simplifying business operations within our zones. Recognizing Nigeria’s potential in gas reserves, we pledge to capitalize on this resource, anchoring our free zones as hubs for refining, utilization, and development in line with Nigeria’s energy transition goals,” Usman stated.
“We will commit to prioritising the welfare of all staff. I will be open to suggestions on improvement of our processes and procedures, and I charge you to respond positively to changes as we seek to reposition the Authority for more efficient performance. In the coming days, I will formally unveil to you my plans for a more result-driven OGFZA-driven by the 7- point pledge I have just highlighted,” he added.
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