The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Commerce, Hon. Ahmed Munir, has reiterated the National Assembly’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s export capacity as he wrapped up a two-day inspection visit to the Kano Free Trade Zone and several industrial complexes in Kano State.

Hon. Munir, who arrived unannounced, said the visit was aimed at observing the natural order of operations at the zone, gauging service delivery, and identifying the key challenges hindering its full potential.
Speaking after touring various facilities, he noted that the Kano Free Trade Zone—established in 1992 under the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) Act—holds immense promise in driving industrialisation, agro-processing, and non-oil export development in Northern Nigeria.
“The inspection gave me firsthand insight into both the strengths and the pressing needs of this zone. Kano has the location, history, and manpower to lead Nigeria’s export diversification agenda,” Hon. Munir stated.
He stressed the urgent need for revitalisation of the trade zone through improved infrastructure, including independent power generation, rehabilitation of internal roads, efficient rail connections, and swift activation of the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline.
Hon. Munir also recommended upgrades to warehousing and logistics systems, and called for policy consistency to restore investor confidence.
As part of his visit, the lawmaker held strategic discussions with the Deputy Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, at the Government House. The meeting focused on attracting foreign direct investment, particularly in power, mining, and agriculture, with an emphasis on value addition and job creation.
The House Committee Chairman used the opportunity to create awareness among local manufacturers and exporters on new pro-trade policies introduced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. These include tax incentives, low-interest export financing, and trade facilitation reforms to boost Nigeria’s competitiveness in international markets.
Calling for stronger collaboration between federal and state governments, Hon. Munir emphasized the need to position Kano as a key player under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), given its strategic location and historic commercial relevance.
“The National Assembly will continue to provide legislative support to policies that encourage industrial growth and expand Nigeria’s non-oil revenue base,” he assured.
Hon. Munir concluded the tour with a call for public-private partnerships to attract modern technology, enhance productivity, and transform Kano into a regional export powerhouse.
