Dangote Industries Limited has commenced preliminary processes for the construction of a multi-billion-dollar deep-sea port at the Olokola Free Trade Zone in Ogun State, as part of its expansion into logistics, maritime infrastructure, and export-led industrialisation.
A delegation from the company, led by Managing Director, Infrastructure and Logistics, Jamil Abubakar, visited host communities in Ogun and Ondo states to begin stakeholder engagements ahead of execution.
Mr Abubakar said the project would significantly boost Nigeria’s maritime trade and unlock economic opportunities.
“The Olokola Port project is a major step in opening up Nigeria’s economic potential, strengthening trade, reducing pressure on existing ports, and supporting industrial growth,” he said.
The proposed project, spanning over 10,000 hectares, is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s trade capacity and position the company as a major player in Africa’s logistics and maritime sector under its Vision 2030 agenda.
The deep-sea port will be located in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area of Ogun State, extending toward Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State along the Atlantic coastline.
Mr Abubakar added that the port would serve as a logistics gateway for exports and imports, helping improve Nigeria’s competitiveness in regional and international trade.
Support for industrial exports
The company said the deep-sea port has been designed as part of an integrated industrial ecosystem that will support exports of fertilisers, petrochemicals, and refined petroleum products.
It is also expected to facilitate future liquefied natural gas exports and the importation of heavy industrial equipment.
Dangote Industries stated that the infrastructure would strengthen Africa’s commerce and logistics network while supporting long-term industrial growth.
Host communities back project
During the visit, the delegation, accompanied by environmental consultants and surveyors, inspected key locations including Ode-Omi in Ogun State, Araromi Seaside Kingdom, and Igbokoda in Ondo State.
The Lenuwa of Ode-Omi, Folailu Adekunle Hassan, welcomed the project. Oba Hassan expressed optimism over the economic benefits.
“We have been expecting you for a long time. It is good that you are here today. Do your best, and we will all benefit from this process,” he said.
The monarch approved preliminary surveys, household enumeration, economic tree assessments, and compensation discussions for affected communities.
Similarly, the Alara of Araromi Seaside Kingdom, Adeoloye Olawole, pledged support.
Oba Olawole said the community was eager for the project to begin.
“We can’t wait for this project to commence. We are going to give you physical and spiritual support,” he stated.
Security, jobs and economic growth
The delegation also visited the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base in Igbokoda, where Acting Commanding Officer A.A. Makinwa assured cooperation.
Lt. Commander Makinwa pledged support for the project in line with national economic development goals.
Dangote Industries said the seaport is expected to drive job creation, attract foreign direct investment, and stimulate sectors including manufacturing, logistics, and services.
The company added that the project would improve Nigeria’s export diversification strategy and strengthen participation in intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
The Olokola seaport project marks another major infrastructure investment by Dangote Industries as it expands beyond manufacturing into logistics and maritime development.
Analysts say the project could reduce pressure on existing ports, boost regional trade efficiency, and reinforce Nigeria’s role as a major industrial hub in West Africa.
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