Chinese investors commend Osun infrastructure drive, signal major industrial investments

A delegation of Chinese investors from mainland China and Hong Kong has commended the pace of infrastructural development across Osun State, describing it as a strong catalyst for industrialisation, economic growth and communal prosperity.

The 22-member delegation, drawn from sectors including food and water processing, mining, electric vehicles and agro-equipment, conveyed its assessment through the team leader, Ms Nancy Chi of Yuanfar International, at a dinner hosted by the Osun State Government at the Government House, Osogbo, on Tuesday evening.

The event was attended by Governor Ademola Adeleke; his deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi; the Owa Obokun of Ijeshaland, Oba Adesuyi Haastrup; members of the state executive council; and traditional rulers from Ijeshaland.

Ms Chi said the extensive road construction and urban renewal projects across Osun had reshaped investor perception of the state, making it an increasingly attractive destination for foreign direct investment.

“There is a saying in China: if you want to build wealth and stimulate economic growth, build roads. That is the secret of China’s development, and the Osun governor understands this reality,” she said.

“Traditionally, Chinese investors focused on Lagos, Ogun and Abuja. Osun was hardly mentioned. But that narrative is changing rapidly because of the visible infrastructure development. We toured several towns and saw multiple projects ongoing. Osun is peaceful, culturally rich and blessed with beautiful landscapes. These factors are attracting Chinese investors.”

She disclosed that members of the delegation were exploring investments in food processing, water packaging and treatment, mining, electric vehicles, agro-equipment and other manufacturing ventures, particularly within the Osun Free Trade Zone.

Ms Chi also revealed that Hong Kong’s investment promotion agency would soon invite Governor Adeleke on an official visit, while a separate investment mission is expected to visit Osun State in 2026.

Speaking at the event, the Owa Obokun of Ijeshaland, Oba Adesuyi Haastrup, described the Adeleke family as “the Kennedys of Nigeria,” noting their long-standing commitment to economic development as a foundation for effective governance.

The monarch, who recalled his tenure as deputy governor of the state, said the visiting investors were prepared to establish industrial plants in Ilesa and other parts of Osun.

“These investors are ready for business. They are considering projects such as a China Town, a computer village, solar-powered tricycle plants and other industrial ventures. Their strong interest in the Osun Free Trade Zone is a testament to the enabling environment created by this administration,” he said.

Governor Adeleke, in his remarks, thanked the Chinese delegation for their positive assessment of his administration, noting that infrastructure development remains central to his economic agenda.

“Our government inherited an infrastructure deficit of over 80 per cent, which we have reduced to about 40 per cent within three years,” he said.

“To attract investors, we have simplified the processing of Certificates of Occupancy to a maximum of 45 days, harmonised tax collection to eliminate multiple taxation, and revived the Osun Free Trade Zone abandoned by the previous administration.”

The governor further announced that Osun had secured accreditation for the study of the Chinese language at the University of Ilesa, describing it as part of efforts to deepen economic and cultural ties with Asia.

“Osun is open for business. We mean business in our drive to attract Asian investment. I invite you to come and invest in Osun State,” Adeleke said.

The dinner marked another step in the state’s push to position itself as an emerging hub for industrial and foreign investment in the South-West.