Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has officially submitted paperwork to construct what will become Nigeria’s largest seaport at the Olokola Free Trade Zone in Ogun State—reviving a project shelved years ago. The development marks a significant return to the area after previous setbacks tied to policy hurdles and administrative obstacles
During a courtesy visit to Governor Dapo Abiodun in Abeokuta, Dangote revealed that the state’s pro-investor climate and recent reforms spurred his renewed confidence in Ogun. He highlighted that the revamp includes not only the seaport but also the reinstatement of the Itori cement plant—twice demolished under a former administration—and welcomed the opportunity to collaborate with the state on infrastructure that will boost maritime trade and export capacity
The proposed Olokola port, described as a multi-billion‑dollar, deep‑sea facility, is poised to ease congestion at congested hubs like Apapa and Tin Can, while creating a strategic export gateway for Dangote Group’s industrial products
Sources confirm the seaport will complement Dangote’s 6 million‑ton‑per‑annum cement plant in Itori—slated for completion by November 2026—alongside the existing 12 Mtpa Ibeshe facility, bringing Ogun’s total cement output to an impressive 18 million tonnes annually
Dangote emphasised Nigeria’s drive toward self-sufficiency, citing successes in cement, fertilizer, and petroleum sectors. His 650,000‑barrel‑per‑day refinery in Lekki, along with fertilizer and cement operations, will benefit massively from a dedicated port—cutting logistics costs and accelerating exports
Governor Abiodun welcomed the move, calling it a historic day for Ogun State and affirming the government’s commitment to supporting the project through policy backing and tax‑credit infrastructure like roads connecting industrial zones
He expressed that the seaport and cement revival will not only generate jobs but also help Ogun solidify its status as Nigeria’s industrial gateway.
In summary, Lokola’s mega‑seaport, backed by Dangote’s industrial might and Ogun’s investor-friendly atmosphere, signals a bold leap forward in Nigeria’s infrastructure and export capacity. With operations in cement, fertilizer, and refined petroleum soon benefiting from streamlined maritime logistics, this project is shaping up to be a pivotal catalyst for national economic transformation.
