Ogun State is on the brink of an industrial revolution as Africa’s foremost industrialist, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, reaffirms his commitment to making the state Nigeria’s top manufacturing and logistics hub. With the revival of investments in Olokola and the expansion of cement production in Itori and Ibeshe, Dangote’s vision aligns with Governor Dapo Abiodun’s policies aimed at creating a thriving business environment.
Dangote’s return to Olokola Free Trade Zone signals a renewed focus on developing Nigeria’s largest deep-sea port, a project expected to position Ogun as the leading gateway for trade and commerce in West Africa. Alongside this, the expansion of cement production to 18 million metric tons annually across his plants in Itori and Ibeshe will further solidify Ogun State’s dominance in the construction and manufacturing sectors.
Speaking on the rationale behind his renewed investment, Dangote commended Governor Abiodun’s investor-friendly policies, which have provided a stable and supportive environment for businesses to thrive.
“I would especially like to commend, in a special way, my good friend and brother, His Excellency, the Governor of Ogun State, for his vision and deliberate policies that focus on attracting enterprises through immense support for the private sector, which is now attracting investors,” he stated.
Reflecting on past setbacks, Dangote recalled how his company had previously abandoned its Itori cement plant project due to repeated demolitions. However, he expressed confidence in Governor Abiodun’s leadership and assured that his company was back in full force.
“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, Prince Dapo Abiodun, we are back. When you visit the factory, you will be surprised at what we have done.”
Beyond cement production, Dangote revealed that his company’s initial vision for Olokola, which had been shelved, is now being revived due to the state’s improved investment climate. He emphasized the strategic importance of the seaport project, which will not only boost the state’s economy but also provide a vital infrastructure backbone for Nigeria’s industrial growth.
“We had earlier abandoned our vision of investing in the Olokola Free Trade Zone (OKFTZ), but because of your policies and investor-friendly environment, I want to say we are back and will work with the state government to return to Olokola, and plans are underway to construct the largest port in the country.”
Ogun State’s growing reputation as an industrial powerhouse is further reinforced by Dangote Cement’s dominance in the Nigerian market. With 70% of its 52 million metric tons per annum production capacity based in Nigeria, the company’s operations in Ogun play a central role in ensuring national self-sufficiency in cement.
Governor Abiodun welcomed Dangote’s return as a transformative development for Ogun State, emphasizing its impact on job creation, infrastructure development, and economic prosperity. He recounted the disappointment of Ogun indigenes when Dangote’s refinery was sited in Lagos instead of Olokola but expressed optimism that the renewed investments would make up for lost opportunities.
“The day the Dangote Refinery groundbreaking was performed in Lagos was a day of heartbreak for the sons and daughters of Ogun State as they watched helplessly on television,” Abiodun said. “But today, history is being rewritten as Dangote returns to Olokola and Itori with groundbreaking investments.”
With the Itori plant producing six million metric tons annually and the Ibeshe plant producing 12 million metric tons, Ogun is set to become the largest cement producer in sub-Saharan Africa. Additionally, the planned seaport at Olokola will enhance the state’s logistics and export potential, cementing its status as the industrial and commercial capital of Nigeria.
Governor Abiodun assured Dangote and other investors of the state government’s unwavering commitment to fostering a conducive business environment.
“Not only have you chosen to complete Itori, but you have also chosen to come back and develop the biggest port in Nigeria. For this, I thank you,” the governor said.
The Dangote Group has also reaffirmed its dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), with Dangote acknowledging the support of traditional rulers and local communities for the smooth operation of his businesses in Ogun State.
“I appreciate traditional rulers and the people of Itori for their support and partnership, which enabled the smooth and speedy take-off of the cement plant. The encouragement from the people of Yewaland has fostered smooth operations, and we assure continued adherence to our Corporate Social Responsibilities to the host communities.”
The company’s infrastructural contributions include the construction of key roads, such as the Interchange-Papalanto-Ilaro road, which will significantly improve transportation and logistics in the region.
With these strategic investments, Ogun State is poised for unprecedented economic growth. Dangote’s return, combined with Governor Abiodun’s policy-driven approach to industrialization, ensures that the state remains a leading force in Nigeria’s economic transformation. The synergy between government and private sector leaders like Dangote continues to reaffirm Ogun’s role as a critical driver of industrial and economic development in the country.
Tayo Mabeweje
Media Consultant to the Executive Governor of Ogun State
