The Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority has called on stakeholders within Nigeria’s Special Economic Zones to embrace Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software to enhance efficiency, regulatory compliance and investment transparency.
Speaking at the 3rd Special Economic Zones Annual Meeting in Lagos, OGFZA’s Managing Director and CEO, Bamanga Jada, harped on the crucial role of ERP systems in streamlining operations within free zones adding that with software playing a central role, regulatory compliance and optimising operational efficiency is assured.
Jada’s remarks come as OGFZA continues to drive initiatives aimed at boosting Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
According to Jada, the implementation of ERP software in Nigeria’s free zones will significantly ensure seamless tracking of goods and mitigate potential revenue losses.
The system also supports the government’s broader economic reforms by promoting accountability and streamlining business processes within the zones.
Jada also urged the Nigeria Economic Zones Association (NEZA) to collaborate in raising awareness about the ERP software, which has been operational since 2017.
“The ERP software tracks all cargo entering OGFZA Free Zones from arrival to final destination, ensuring compliance with Customs and OGFZA regulations,” Jada said.
“It also prevents unauthorised entry into the Customs territory without proper taxes and duties, thereby enhancing transparency and security.”
“The adoption of ERP technology is essential for the seamless operation of Nigeria’s free zones. It aligns with global best practices and enhances investor confidence,” he concluded.
OGFZA recently announced a strategic partnership with investors to establish a Compressed Natural Gas conversion center at the Onne Free Zone, expected to cut logistics costs by up to 70 per cent while advancing cleaner energy alternatives.
Additionally, OGFZA is facilitating the development of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) processing plants at Onne and Liberty Free Zones, which will provide clean cooking gas for over 200,000 homes.
These projects align with Nigeria’s Decade of Gas Initiative and aim to increase domestic gas supply by 25 per cent.
Since its inception, Nigeria’s oil and gas free zones have attracted over $24.6 billion in direct investments, fostering advancements in highly specialized industries such as shipbuilding, pipe coating, and mud engineering.
OGFZA has also played a pivotal role in workforce development, training over 31,404 Nigerians in petroleum industry skills, traditionally dominated by expatriates.
Jada also praised the government’s ongoing economic reforms, citing a World Bank projection that Nigeria’s GDP growth rate is expected to rise from 3.3 per cent in 2024 to 3.6 per cent in 2025.
He also commended the Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, MFR, for her dedication to fostering a business-friendly environment.
The 3rd Special Economic Zones Annual Meeting reinforced the importance of digital transformation in Nigeria’s free zones, positioning ERP software as a critical tool in advancing economic growth and industrial development.
