What is Export-Free Zones

Nigeria, as the giant of Africa, is in a state of limbo because of its overreliance on oil money, which retarded its level of growth and development. The discovery of crude oil forced the Nigerian government to shift attention away from agriculture. This neglect of agriculture negatively affected Nigeria as both agriculture and manufacturing activities were halted. Ironically, the growth created by oil revenue was not sustained and directed to the other sectors of the economy for widespread multiplier effects. As declining oil prices reveal the economic weaknesses of the country, there is pressure for Nigeria to seek an alternative means of revenue. Nigeria is now transitioning from oil to industrial cities. It is against this background that this chapter is illustrating how the economy's overdependence on oil is transitioning to a more diversified alternative by transforming cities. This chapter focuses on Birnin Kebbi as a case study for a medium-size city that has huge growth potential.