Dangote Industries Limited has started early preparations for the construction of a massive deep-sea port at the Olokola Free Trade Zone in Ogun State. The project, which will cover more than 10,000 hectares, is part of the company’s long-term plan to expand its operations in logistics, maritime services, and export-driven industrial growth.
According to the company, the multi-billion-dollar project is a major part of its Vision 2030 strategy aimed at turning the group into one of the world’s leading industrial and manufacturing companies.
The proposed seaport will be located in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area and will extend toward Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State along the Atlantic Ocean coastline. The port is expected to become a major hub for imports, exports, and regional trade activities.
As part of the initial process, a delegation from Dangote Industries, led by the Managing Director of Infrastructure and Logistics, Capt. Jamil Abubakar, visited several host communities in Ogun and Ondo states to begin discussions with local stakeholders before construction begins.
Speaking during the visit, Abubakar described the project as an important step toward unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential and improving Africa’s maritime trade network.
He explained that the new port would help reduce pressure on existing ports in Nigeria while creating new opportunities for businesses and local communities. According to him, the project will provide jobs, encourage economic activities, and support long-term development in both Ogun and Ondo states.
Abubakar also said the strategic location of the port would make it an important gateway for exports and imports, helping Nigeria compete more effectively in regional and global trade.
He added that the port is being designed as part of a larger industrial ecosystem that will strengthen logistics and commerce across Africa. The facility is expected to support the export of fertilisers, petrochemicals, and refined petroleum products. It will also handle the importation of heavy industrial equipment and may support future liquefied natural gas exports.
The company assured residents that it would continue to engage with host communities throughout the planning and construction stages of the project.
During the visit, the Dangote team, alongside surveyors and environmental experts, toured Ode-Omi community in Ogun State as well as Araromi Seaside Kingdom and Igbokoda in Ondo State.
Traditional rulers in the affected communities welcomed the project and expressed their support.
The Lenuwa of Ode-Omi, Oba Folailu Adekunle Hassan (Oshotekun II), said the community had long expected the project and promised cooperation with the company. He also approved the commencement of surveys, household enumeration, and compensation discussions for affected residents.
Similarly, the Alara of Araromi Seaside Kingdom, Oba Adeoloye Olawole, pledged both physical and spiritual support for the success of the project.
The delegation also visited the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base in Igbokoda, where Acting Commanding Officer Lt. Commander A.A. Makinwa assured the company of the Navy’s cooperation in supporting the development.
Dangote Industries said the seaport project is expected to create thousands of jobs, attract foreign investment, and boost sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and services. The company also noted that the project would support Nigeria’s export diversification goals and improve trade opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement.
