The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) has announced the establishment of the Harvestfield Free Trade Zone, aimed at significantly curtailing Nigeria’s reliance on imported medical products. The Managing Director, Olufemi Ogunyemi, emphasized that this initiative is crucial for enhancing local manufacturing in the healthcare sector. During the presentation of the Declaration of Licence and Operation Licence to the zone's promoters in Abuja, Ogunyemi highlighted the importance of this move towards transitioning Nigeria into an export-oriented economy.

Furthermore, Ogunyemi expressed that the new medical free zone is designed to stimulate investment in healthcare manufacturing, ultimately improving access to essential medical supplies. The development is seen as a structured effort to encourage both local and international investors to take advantage of the free trade zone framework. By doing so, the initiative aims not only to boost manufacturing capabilities but also to create an environment conducive to innovation and growth in the health sector.

By leveraging the benefits of the Harvestfield Free Trade Zone, NEPZA is calling on investors in the health sector to embrace opportunities that will expand local production. The long-term vision is to lessen Nigeria’s overwhelming dependency on imports, which has been a significant issue in the healthcare landscape. This initiative represents a strategic approach to enhance self-sufficiency and sustainability in medical supply chains within the country.