Business mogul Aliko Dangote has unveiled ambitious plans to construct a major seaport and expand cement production in Ogun State, signaling a significant boost to both local infrastructure and the economy.
During a meeting with Governor Dapo Abiodun and Ogun State’s Executive Council on Monday, Dangote revealed that his company would build what he described as “the largest port in the country” at the Olokola Free Trade Zone, breathing new life into an investment area that had previously been abandoned.
Additionally, Dangote announced the construction of two new cement production lines at Itori, with a combined capacity of 6 million metric tons per year. These new lines will complement the existing 12 million metric tons capacity plant at Ibeshe, significantly increasing the company’s cement output in the region.
“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, Dapo Abiodun, we are back,” Dangote explained, emphasizing the pivotal role of the Ogun State governor in the revival of the project.
Governor Abiodun expressed his gratitude for the expansion, highlighting that the new cement production facilities would make Ogun State the largest cement producer in sub-Saharan Africa, with a total capacity of 18 million metric tons. “The way you selflessly continue to promote this country all over the world, we can’t thank you enough,” the governor told Dangote.
Dangote further shared that 70% of his company’s total cement production in Africa currently takes place in Nigeria, with the Obajana plant in Kogi State producing 16.25 million metric tons annually. Following the meeting, Dangote’s delegation visited the Itori construction site and inspected the ongoing Papalanto concrete-paved road project, which is being developed under the federal government’s tax credit scheme.
The visit was also attended by local traditional rulers, including the Olu of Itori, Oba Abdulfatai Akorede Akamo, who were present during parts of the inspection.
