Nigerian billionaire and industrialist Aliko Dangote has announced intentions to establish the nation’s largest seaport within the Olokola Free Trade Zone located in Ogun State.
During a conference with Governor Dapo Abiodun and various officials from Ogun State on Monday, Dangote affirmed that the previously neglected Olokola Seaport initiative would be revitalized under the auspices of his enterprise.
He underscored that the port would markedly enhance trade, optimize logistics, and fortify Nigeria’s standing as a preeminent economic force in the region.
In addition to the seaport endeavor, Dangote disclosed plans for a substantial augmentation of cement production in Ogun State, featuring the construction of two new cement production lines in Itori.
These newly established facilities are projected to contribute an aggregate capacity of six million metric tons annually, thereby augmenting the existing plant’s capacity of 12 million metric tons situated in Ibeshe.
“Our factory at Itori was pulled down twice. When we started the second time, they not only demolished the factory but also the fence, so we left. But right now, because of His Excellency, our governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, we are back,” Dangote stated.
Governor Dapo Abiodun welcomed the investment, stating that the expansion would position Ogun State as the largest cement producer in sub-Saharan Africa, with a total output of 18 million metric tons annually.
“The way you selflessly continue to promote this country all over the world, we can’t thank you enough,” Abiodun told Dangote.
Dangote further indicated that 70% of Dangote Cement’s overall production across the African continent occurs within Nigeria, with the Obajana facility in Kogi State yielding 16.25 million metric tons each year.
Subsequent to the meeting, Dangote and the state delegation conducted an inspection of the construction site for the Itori cement plant as well as the Papalanto concrete-paved road project, which is currently being executed under the federal government’s tax credit program.
Traditional leaders, including the Olu of Itori, Oba Abdulfatai Akorede Akamo, were also in attendance during the visit.
