Dangote Group Set to Develop Nigeria’s Largest Seaport in Ogun
The President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Ltd, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has unveiled ambitious plans to establish Nigeria’s largest seaport at the Olokola Free Trade Zone (OKFTZ) in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area. This announcement signals the company’s return to the strategic zone, thanks to investor-friendly policies under Governor Dapo Abiodun’s leadership.
“We earlier abandoned our vision of investing in the Olokola Free Trade Zone, but because of Governor Abiodun’s policies and investor-friendly environment, we are back. Plans are underway to construct the largest port in the country,” Dangote revealed during his visit.
Work Resumes at $800 Million Itori Cement Plant
Dangote also confirmed that construction has resumed on the six-million metric tons per annum cement factory in Itori, Ewekoro Local Government Area. Previously stalled due to opposition under the past administration, the $800 million project now has a completion target of November 2026.
Once completed, the factory will significantly boost Ogun State’s production capacity to 18 million metric tons per annum, making it the largest cement-producing hub in Africa.
Driving Nigeria’s Industrial Self-Sufficiency
Aliko Dangote emphasized his company’s commitment to Nigeria’s economic growth, highlighting milestones achieved:
- Self-sufficiency in cement and fertilizer production, with surplus exports generating foreign exchange.
- Rollout of automotive gas oil (AGO) in January 2024.
- Commencement of premium motor spirit (PMS) production in September 2024 at the 650,000 barrels-per-day Dangote Refinery in Ibeju-Lekki.
- Production of aviation fuels, LPG, and carbon black to meet Nigeria’s domestic demand.
“Today we have repeated the cement story, where a country that was once a net importer of a product is now exporting refined petroleum products,” Dangote stated.
Governor Abiodun Welcomes Industrial Growth
Responding to the announcement, Governor Dapo Abiodun praised Dangote’s resilience and long-term vision. He commended the recommencement of work at Itori and acknowledged the vital role the Dangote road project from Sagamu Interchange to Papalanto plays in supporting the state’s economy.
“This visit is historic and reaffirms Ogun’s status as Nigeria’s industrial hub,” the governor said.
Conclusion
With renewed investments in Ogun State’s infrastructure and industrial capacity, Dangote Industries continues to shape Nigeria’s economic future. The upcoming seaport and cement factory will not only boost local industries but also solidify Nigeria’s position in the global market.
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