The African Development Bank (AfDB) has wrapped up its mid-term assessment of the Ekiti Knowledge Zone (EKZ) Project, outlining critical steps to fast-track execution and achieve its developmental goals. Running from November 2 to 6, 2026, the evaluation mission sought to gauge implementation milestones, measure successes, pinpoint operational bottlenecks, and formulate remedies to enhance overall project delivery.
Ms Lolade Olutola spearheaded the project team during the interactions, whereas Rosemond Offei-Awuku directed the visiting AfDB delegation. Furthermore, Mr Akin Oyebode, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Finance, guided the delegation on an official tour of the project location.
What did the review mission entail?
The evaluation centered around an extensive workshop addressing procurement protocols, financial tracking, disbursement schedules, environmental and social protections, gender mainstreaming, private sector engagement, and inherent project risks. To evaluate institutional involvement, the AfDB delegation toured several higher education institutions, including the Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology in Ikere- Ekiti, Ekiti State University in Ado-Ekiti, and the Federal Polytechnic, Ado- Ekiti.
Additionally, the team inspected physical progress at the EKZ site, where construction is managed by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC). They also visited the Ekiti State Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, a vital infrastructure project designed to support the economic growth of the Knowledge Zone.
How is private sector participation being handled?
As part of the itinerary, the delegation held strategic meetings with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) concerning a proposed Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. These talks centered on establishing a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to oversee the zone, governance frameworks, methods for drawing private capital, and the long-term viability of different cluster hubs.
The delegation also met with Project Affected Persons (PAPs) to discuss the Resettlement Action Plan. This dialogue evaluated relocation commitments, programs aimed at restoring livelihoods, and feedback provided by community stakeholders.
Concluding the visit, the team met with Commissioner Akin Oyebode to brief the state administration on current milestones and pressing priorities. According to an official statement issued after the visit, the mid-term review allowed both the bank and the state government to address obstacles and align on strategies to expedite execution. Governor Biodun Oyebanji's administration reiterated its dedication to transforming the Knowledge Zone into a cornerstone for regional innovation, technological advancement, enterprise development, employment generation, and economic growth.