NEPZA Boss Re-Elected to World Free Zones Organisation Board in Panama
Oru Leonard
The Managing Director of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), Olufemi Ogunyemi, has been re-elected to the Board of the World Free Zones Organization during the organisation’s 11th Annual Congress held in Panama City.
This is contained in a press release signed by Martins Odeh, Ph.D.
(AD) Head, Corporate Communications, NEPZA, on Friday 15 May, 2026.
Dr. Ogunyemi secured an overwhelming 85 per cent of the votes cast, following strong backing from African, European, and Latin American blocs, reaffirming global confidence in Nigeria’s growing influence in the administration and regulation of Special Economic Zones.
According to the statement, the re-election marks Dr. Ogunyemi’s second consecutive victory, having first emerged onto the WFZO board in Dubai in 2024 with similar continental support.
Chairman of the WFZO, Mohammed Alzarooni, described the Nigerian official’s re-election as well deserved, citing his commitment, leadership, and contributions during his first tenure on the board.
“I simply wish to congratulate Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi of Nigeria and all other members of the WFZO board of directors on their delightful new tenure and continued exemplary service to the world,” Alzarooni stated.
Reacting to the development, NEPZA management said the renewed mandate reflected Dr. Ogunyemi’s exceptional leadership qualities and his impactful stewardship of the authority.
Speaking on behalf of the management and staff, Director of Corporate Services, Haleema Sani Kamba, said the recognition on the global stage was a testament to the NEPZA boss’ outstanding service and dedication.
“We are not surprised that the impact of his excellent service and leadership has been acknowledged and rewarded on a global stage again,” she said.
In his acceptance remarks, Dr. Ogunyemi expressed appreciation to the voting blocs and fellow board members for the confidence reposed in him, describing the victory as a reflection of Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to reposition its Free Trade Zones for global competitiveness.
According to him, the country’s Special Economic Zones are becoming increasingly attractive to foreign investors in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration.
“I shall continue to do my best to serve the organisation. Nigeria and other African countries shall seize this opportunity of my being on the board to attract more Foreign Direct Investments to the continent,” he stated.
The World Free Zones Organization serves as the global umbrella body for countries operating Free Trade Zones and Special Economic Zones, promoting partnerships and investment opportunities aimed at enhancing economic prosperity worldwide.
This year’s congress was notable for the participation of the presidents of Panama and the Dominican Republic, marking the first time two sitting presidents attended the organisation’s annual gathering simultaneously.
