The Osun Free Trade Zone has re-emerged as one of Nigeria’s most promising industrial assets, following a period of inactivity and renewed government commitment to reposition it as a hub for export-driven manufacturing, green technology and value-adding industries. Formerly known as the Living Spring or Omoluabi Free Trade Zone, the site is now central to Osun State’s industrialisation drive, with the government working closely with NEPZA, private partners and international investors to reactivate and expand the zone’s potential.
Over the last two years, Osun has intensified engagements with foreign delegations from the UK, China, Europe and the Middle East, attracting expressions of interest in agro-processing, renewable energy, battery production, minerals processing and light manufacturing. These investors are responding to the state’s promises of streamlined operations, improved ease of doing business, and a long-term plan to power the zone with clean and reliable energy. Some companies have already commenced early-stage activities, an indication that confidence in the zone is gradually being restored.
The vision for the zone is broad and future-focused. Osun intends to build an industrial ecosystem where agro-processing, solar and battery manufacturing, electronics assembly, automotive components, packaging, warehousing and mineral beneficiation can operate side by side. This transformation is supported by the state’s abundant workforce, proximity to multiple higher institutions, and strategic location in the Southwest corridor with access to Lagos ports and neighbouring state markets. As infrastructure upgrades continue, particularly road improvements, industrial estates and new power initiatives, the zone is expected to become a major employer, generating thousands of direct and indirect jobs and stimulating the growth of local suppliers and service chains.
Like many free zones across Africa, the success of the Osun Free Trade Zone will depend on sustained infrastructure delivery, clear PPP frameworks, reliable power, and consistent policy implementation. The state government appears aware of these realities and is pushing for stronger partnerships with NEPZA, concessionaires and anchor investors to ensure that the renewed momentum does not fade. With ongoing work and continued political commitment, the zone has the potential to become one of Nigeria’s most competitive industrial platforms, particularly for businesses seeking green manufacturing and export-led growth.
To support investor decisions, Osun has developed a concise, one-page investment brief that forms part of the overall pitch for the zone. Investors entering the Osun Free Trade Zone enjoy 100% tax exemptions, duty-free import of equipment and raw materials, guaranteed repatriation of profits, and a streamlined regulatory process managed within the zone. They also gain access to a central location in the Southwest, offering both domestic market reach and West African trade connectivity. The state aims to build the zone as a sustainable industrial area powered by renewable-energy solutions, which makes it particularly attractive to companies in solar panel production, battery manufacturing, and other clean-tech sectors. The availability of affordable labour and technical talent further strengthens the zone’s competitiveness, alongside planned infrastructure for water supply, waste management, warehousing and logistics.
Investment opportunities cut across solar and battery assembly, agro-processing plants, lithium-based mineral processing, electronics and appliance assembly lines, packaging facilities and export-ready logistics hubs. New investors can expect rapid land allocation, guided licensing support, immediate access to free-zone incentives, and linkages to local agricultural and mineral supply chains. The state is also providing security and operational support to ensure investor confidence during project rollout. Companies interested in larger-scale partnerships may explore concession arrangements or joint ventures with the state government and the FTZ management.
Taken together, the renewed activity, the incentive framework, the strategic location, and the push for green industrialisation present a compelling case. The Osun Free Trade Zone is steadily evolving into a modern, secure and opportunity-rich environment where manufacturing, processing and export business can scale with confidence. For investors seeking stability, incentives, market access and long-term growth potential, Osun is positioning the Free Trade Zone as a destination where ambitions can translate into real industrial success.
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