Chinese investors commend ongoing transformation
By John Dike, Osogbo
A delegation of Chinese investors from Mainland China and Hong Kong has commended Osun State Government for the rapid infrastructural transformation taking place across towns and cities in the state, describing the development as a major catalyst for industrialisation, economic expansion, and shared prosperity.
The investors, numbering 22 and drawn from diverse sectors including water processing, food processing, mining, agro-equipment manufacturing, and electric vehicle production, made their observations during a dinner hosted at the Government House, Osogbo.
The event was attended by Governor Ademola Adeleke; his deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi; the Owa Obokun of Ijeshaland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adesuyi Haastrup; members of the State Executive Council; and prominent traditional rulers from Ijeshaland.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the team leader, Ms. Nancy Chi of Yuanfar International, attributed the growing interest of Chinese investors in Osun State to the current administration’s massive investment in road and urban infrastructure.
“There is a saying in the Chinese language: If you want to build wealth and achieve economic growth, build roads. That is the secret behind China’s development, and the Osun governor clearly understands this reality,” Ms. Chi stated.
She noted that while Abuja, Lagos, and Ogun states had traditionally been the preferred destinations for Chinese investments, Osun State was rapidly emerging as a new hub.
“In the past, Chinese investors hardly mentioned Osun as an investment destination. Today, that narrative has changed. Osun is now becoming a focal point for Chinese investors because of the visible infrastructural development and the peaceful environment created by the current administration,” she said.
According to her, the delegation toured several parts of the state and observed ongoing construction projects and urban renewal initiatives.
“We have seen multiple road and infrastructure projects across the state. We commend Mr. Governor for these efforts. Osun, as the heartland of the Yoruba people, is peaceful, culturally rich, and blessed with beautiful landscapes—qualities that attract investors,” she added.
Ms. Chi further disclosed that the investors were impressed by the state government’s support, particularly in facilitating investment processes within the Osun Free Trade Zone.
“Our delegation represents investors in food processing, water packaging and treatment, mining, electric vehicles, and agro-equipment manufacturing. Beyond our engagements here, the Hong Kong government, through its investment agency, will soon invite Governor Adeleke for an official visit. The agency is also scheduled to visit Osun State in 2026,” she announced.
In his remarks, the Owa Obokun of Ijeshaland, flanked by his wife, Olori Vicky Ayodele Haastrup, described the Adeleke family as “the Kennedys of Nigeria,” noting their deep-rooted commitment to economic development as a foundation for good governance.
Recalling his experience as a former Deputy Governor of Osun State, Oba Haastrup disclosed that the Chinese investors were keen on establishing industrial plants in Ilesa and other parts of the state.
“These investors are ready for business. They have concrete plans to establish industrial operations, including a China Town, a computer village, and solar-powered tricycle manufacturing plants. Their interest in the Osun State Free Trade Zone is particularly strong,” the monarch said.
He commended Governor Adeleke for providing a conducive business environment and positioning Osun as an attractive destination for foreign direct investment.
Addressing the investors and royal fathers, Governor Ademola Adeleke expressed appreciation for the positive assessment of his administration’s performance, highlighting deliberate efforts to address the state’s inherited infrastructure deficit.
“I deeply appreciate your acknowledgement of our efforts to rebuild Osun’s dilapidated infrastructure. I am particularly pleased with the Chinese proverb emphasising the role of infrastructure in wealth creation. Within three years, our administration has reduced Osun’s infrastructure deficit from over 80 per cent to about 40 per cent,” the governor stated.
Governor Adeleke further outlined key reforms introduced to ease the cost of doing business in the state.
“We have reduced the processing time for Certificates of Occupancy to 45 days, harmonised tax collection to eliminate multiple taxation, and revived the Osun Free Trade Zone abandoned by the previous administration,” he said.
In a move aimed at strengthening ties with Asian investors, the governor announced that his administration had secured accreditation for the study of the Chinese language at the University of Ilesa.
“Osun is open for investment. We are serious about attracting investment from Asia’s economic powerhouse. Hurry and invest in Osun State,” Governor Adeleke urged.
The event was attended by members of the State Executive Council and several royal fathers from Ijeshaland.
