Africa’s leading industrialist and President of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, has announced plans to build Nigeria’s largest seaport at Olokola in Ogun State.
This ambitious project, alongside a new 6-million-metric-ton-per-annum (Mta) cement plant in Itori, underscores Dangote’s renewed commitment to the state’s industrial transformation.
Dangote made the announcement during a courtesy visit to Governor Dapo Abiodun at the state government’s office in Abeokuta, where he lauded the administration’s investor-friendly policies that have rekindled his interest in Ogun State.
Expressing his confidence in Ogun State as a prime investment hub, Dangote highlighted the strategic importance of the state’s economic environment.
“Ogun State is one of the most attractive investment destinations in Nigeria, positioning itself as the manufacturing bedrock of the country.
“We had earlier abandoned our vision of investing in the Olokola Free Trade Zone (OKFTZ), but because of your policies and investor-friendly environment, we are back.
“We will work with the state government to return to Olokola, and plans are underway to construct the largest port in the country,” Dangote stated.
He acknowledged past setbacks, particularly the repeated demolition of the Itori cement factory, which led to the suspension of the project.
However, citing Governor Abiodun’s commitment to industrial growth, he affirmed the revival of the Itori plant and its rapid progress.
“When you visit the factory, you will be surprised at what we have done,” he assured.
Dangote disclosed that two new production lines with a total capacity of 6.0 million Mta are currently under construction at Itori.
Additionally, the 12 million Mta cement plant in Ibeshe is already in operation.
With these developments, the total cement production capacity in Ogun State will reach 18 million Mta, making it the highest-producing state or region in Africa.
“With the contributions of other cement producers in the state, Ogun remains far ahead of other countries across Africa in terms of cement production,” he emphasized.
Dangote Cement, the leading cement producer in Africa, has an annual capacity of 52 million Mta across the continent.
Notably, 70% of this production occurs in Nigeria, with the Obajana plant in Kogi State alone producing 16.25 million Mta, the largest in Africa.
The announcement of Nigeria’s largest seaport at Olokola is a landmark development.
The seaport is expected to bolster maritime trade, logistics, and industrialization, enhancing Nigeria’s economic position on the global stage.
With its strategic location, the Olokola Seaport will ease congestion at existing ports, drive export activities, and boost foreign direct investment (FDI).
Dangote underscored his company’s broader goal of ensuring Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in key industries.
“Our investment in manufacturing has already made Nigeria self-sufficient in cement and fertilizer, with surplus now being exported.
“The same vision applies to our petroleum refinery, which is already meeting domestic demand for Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), aviation fuel, and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG),” he noted.
His 650,000 barrels per day refinery at Ibeju-Lekki is set to transform Nigeria’s energy landscape, reducing reliance on fuel imports and strengthening the country’s economy.
At the construction site of the Itori cement plant, Dangote and Governor Abiodun were warmly received by traditional rulers from host communities in Yewaland, led by the Olu of Itori, Oba Abdulfatai Akorede Akamo.
The monarchs praised Dangote’s patriotism and investment-driven development, which has led to massive job creation and infrastructural improvements.
Governor Abiodun expressed deep appreciation for Dangote’s return to Ogun State, calling it a momentous occasion.
He reflected on the missed opportunity when the Dangote Refinery was relocated to Lagos, describing it as a heartbreaking day for the people of Ogun State.
“Today is a historic day, March 17, 2025, the same month you broke ground for the refinery in Lagos.
Now, you are returning to Ogun to complete the Itori cement plant and develop the biggest port in Nigeria. For this, I thank you,” he said.
He further commended Dangote’s unwavering commitment to national development.
The governor stated: “The way you selflessly promote Nigeria worldwide is remarkable.
“Your life and story continue to inspire millions. Your impact in Ogun State and beyond is extraordinary."
Dangote’s presence in Ogun State is not just about business; his company remains committed to corporate social responsibility (CSR).
Currently, Dangote Group is constructing the Interchange-Papalanto-Ilaro road under the Federal Government’s tax credit scheme, improving transportation infrastructure in the region.
Governor Abiodun assured the full support of his administration in ensuring that Dangote’s investments thrive, benefiting both the state and Nigeria as a whole.
With the revival of the Itori cement plant, the construction of Nigeria’s largest seaport, and continued investment in manufacturing, energy, and infrastructure, Ogun State is solidifying its position as Nigeria’s industrial powerhouse.
Aliko Dangote’s renewed commitment to the state marks the beginning of a new era of economic growth, job creation, and industrial expansion, promising a brighter future for Ogun and Nigeria at large.
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