Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is set to commission the biggest safety footwear manufacturing facility in Nigeria, owned by Yikodeen Company Limited. This development marks a major step forward for local industrial growth and manufacturing self-reliance.
In a statement released Monday, Yikodeen announced plans to unveil its newly expanded and technologically advanced plant located in Lagos.
“The commissioning ceremony, scheduled for June 24, 2025, will be chaired by the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and will feature the attendance of other highly esteemed dignitaries from across government, industry, and traditional institutions,” the statement noted.
With this expansion, Yikodeen now operates the largest safety footwear factory in West Africa, covering 120,000 square feet and capable of producing 5,000 pairs of safety boots daily.
This is a massive leap from its 2016 beginnings, when it produced just 20 pairs a day—representing a 250-fold increase.
The event will host distinguished guests including traditional rulers such as the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III. Also expected is the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, Felix Ogbe. The company’s Board Chairman, Ajibola Akindele, will serve as Chief Host.
According to Yikodeen’s CEO, Atunde Olayinka, this event is a bold statement of intent and progress.
“It is a declaration of intent; a symbol of what is possible when visionary thinking, local talent, and long-term investment converge in the service of national development,” he said. “We are not just opening a factory; we are unlocking new possibilities for industrial self-reliance in Nigeria and across Africa.”
Equipped with modern European production lines and advanced quality control systems, the facility supports a wide product range—from industrial safety boots to school footwear and the expanding Yiko Plus athletic line.
The expansion was also a deliberate strategy to reduce imports and create more local jobs. Since the upgrade began, the company has added over 180 skilled positions and plans to recruit at least 20 more.
With its increased capacity, the factory is projected to contribute over ₦5 billion annually to the economy through employment, local sourcing, and regional supply chain integration.
This growth was supported by strategic investment from Aruwa Capital Management, a women-led private equity firm. The undisclosed multi-million-dollar funding accelerated digital transformation, factory upgrades, and market entry plans.
Governor Sanwo-Olu is expected to highlight the significance of industrial development in Lagos and the importance of backing local manufacturers committed to quality.
