Dangote Announces Plans to Build Nigeria’s Largest Port in Ogun, Revives Olokola Free Trade Zone Project.
Billionaire businessman and President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has revealed plans to establish Nigeria’s largest port in the Olokola Free Trade Zone, located in Ogun State. This ambitious project, which had previously been abandoned, is now being revived due to improved investment conditions in the state.
Dangote made the announcement on Monday during a courtesy visit to Governor Dapo Abiodun at the Government House in Abeokuta. He highlighted Ogun’s business-friendly policies as a key reason for his renewed commitment to investing in the state, adding that Ogun had solidified its position as Nigeria’s top manufacturing hub.
Reviving a Long-Abandoned Project
Dangote recalled that the company initially abandoned its Olokola Free Trade Zone investment due to multiple setbacks. He cited previous challenges, including the demolition of Dangote Group’s Itori factory, which was pulled down twice, forcing the company to suspend operations in the region.
However, the business mogul emphasized that Governor Abiodun’s policies had restored investor confidence, leading to the decision to return and resume work on the project.
“Our factory at Itori was demolished twice. During the second incident, not just the factory but the fence was pulled down, so we abandoned the project. However, due to Governor Abiodun’s efforts, we have returned. Anyone visiting the factory now would be amazed at the progress achieved,” Dangote stated.
He further revealed that plans are now underway to construct Nigeria’s largest port, a move that is expected to significantly transform the country’s trade and logistics landscape.
Boosting Cement Production in Ogun
In addition to the port project, Dangote provided an update on the company’s cement manufacturing operations in the state. He disclosed that:
- Two new cement plant lines with a combined six-million-metric-tonne annual capacity had been completed in Itori.
- A separate 12-million-metric-tonne cement plant had been established in Ibeshe.
Once fully operational, these facilities will increase Dangote Cement’s total production capacity in Ogun to 18 million metric tonnes per year, further strengthening the company’s dominance in the cement sector.
Private Sector’s Role in Economic Growth
Dangote also stressed the importance of private-sector investment in driving Nigeria’s economic development. He reaffirmed his company’s commitment to national growth, emphasizing that Dangote Group would continue making long-term investments to spur industrialization and job creation.
“Nigeria’s economy is growing, and to sustain this momentum, the private sector must play a key role in complementing government efforts. Our investments in Ogun and across the country demonstrate our dedication to economic transformation,” he added.
Governor Abiodun Applauds Dangote’s Vision
Governor Dapo Abiodun expressed appreciation for Dangote’s renewed interest in Ogun and his significant contributions to Nigeria’s economy. He acknowledged the industrialist’s efforts in job creation, infrastructure development, and global promotion of Nigerian industries.
The governor described March 17 as a historic day, noting that it was the same month Dangote broke ground for the Lagos refinery project—one of Africa’s largest industrial investments.
Abiodun also highlighted that beyond completing the Itori factory, Dangote’s decision to develop Nigeria’s largest port in Ogun was a monumental step for the state. He expressed gratitude for the project, emphasizing its potential to attract foreign investment and further elevate Ogun’s status as an industrial powerhouse.
Conclusion
With Dangote Group’s revival of the Olokola Free Trade Zone project and the construction of Nigeria’s largest port, Ogun State is set to experience significant economic growth. These investments will enhance manufacturing, trade, and employment opportunities, solidifying Ogun’s role as a key driver of Nigeria’s industrial success.
The Dangote Group’s renewed commitment to the state underscores the growing confidence in Ogun’s business environment and government policies, making it an attractive destination for local and international investors.
