Africa’s leading industrialist and President of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, has unveiled plans to build Nigeria’s largest seaport in Olokola, Ogun State, alongside a new cement plant in Itori with a production capacity of six million metric tons per annum (Mta).
Speaking during a courtesy visit to Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Dangote attributed his renewed investment in the state to the governor’s investor-friendly policies and commitment to fostering economic growth. He described Ogun State as Nigeria’s manufacturing hub, offering an attractive business climate.
“We had previously abandoned our investment plans in the Olokola Free Trade Zone (OKFTZ), but due to the governor’s policies and the welcoming business environment, we have decided to return. Plans are already in motion to construct the largest port in the country,” Dangote announced.
He further thanked Governor Abiodun for creating an enabling environment that encouraged Dangote Cement’s return to Itori. Recalling past setbacks, he said:
“Our factory in Itori was demolished twice. When we rebuilt, they pulled it down again, including the fence. So, we left. But today, thanks to His Excellency, we are back, and I assure you, what we have done at the site will surprise you.”
Providing an update on ongoing projects, Dangote stated that the Itori cement plant will add six million metric tons to the company’s production capacity. Combined with the existing 12 million metric tons per annum plant in Ibeshe, Ogun State’s total output will reach 18 million Mta—making it the highest cement-producing region in Africa.
“With contributions from other cement manufacturers, Ogun State surpasses many African countries in cement production,” he added.
Dangote Cement, Africa’s leading cement producer, currently has a total installed capacity of 52 million Mta across the continent. In Nigeria, 70% of its production is centered, with its Obajana plant in Kogi State alone accounting for 16.25 million Mta—the largest in Africa. Dangote highlighted that these investments have made Nigeria self-sufficient in cement, just as the country is now a net exporter of fertilizer, boosting foreign exchange earnings.
He also noted that the Dangote Refinery, with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day in Ibeju-Lekki, now meets Nigeria’s domestic demand for Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), aviation fuel, and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).
Reaffirming his commitment to national development, Dangote emphasized the private sector’s role in complementing government efforts. He assured continued investments aimed at transforming Nigeria’s economy and expressed appreciation to the traditional rulers and communities of Itori for their support in ensuring the smooth establishment of the cement plant.
In response, Governor Abiodun recounted how Ogun State residents felt disheartened when Dangote relocated his refinery project to Lagos. However, he expressed gratitude for his return to the state with two significant projects—the Itori cement plant and the Olokola seaport.
“Your return to Ogun State is a historic moment. March 17, 2025, marks the day you reaffirm your commitment to our state. With the Itori cement plant producing six million metric tons per annum and the existing Ibeshe plant producing 12 million metric tons, Ogun State is now the cement capital of Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa,” Abiodun stated.
He commended Dangote for consistently fulfilling corporate social responsibilities, including the construction of the Interchange-Papalanto-Ilaro road, and assured him of the state’s full support in facilitating further investments.
During the visit, Dangote and his delegation, accompanied by the governor, inspected the new Itori cement plant under construction. Traditional rulers, led by the Olu of Itori, Oba Abdulfatai Akorede Akamo, welcomed Dangote, praising his patriotism and investments, which have created jobs and spurred community development.
The entourage also visited the ongoing Papalanto concrete-paved road project, being constructed under the Federal Government’s Tax Credit Scheme.
