Dangote Plans Multi-Billion-Dollar Seaport

Dangote Industries Limited has commenced preliminary processes for the development of a deep-sea port at the Olokola Free Trade Zone in Ogun State, as part of its expansion into logistics, maritime infrastructure and export-driven industrial development.

The proposed project, spanning more than 10,000 hectares, is positioned within Ogun Waterside Local Government Area and extending toward Ilaje Local Government Area in Ondo State along Nigeria’s Atlantic coastline.

The company stated that the multi-billion-dollar seaport project aligns with its Vision 2030 strategy, aimed at positioning the group as a global leader in manufacturing, industrial production and integrated logistics.

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A delegation from Dangote Industries, led by the Managing Director, Infrastructure and Logistics, Capt Jamil Abubakar, visited host communities in Ogun and Ondo states to begin stakeholder engagements ahead of project execution.

The company said the engagement process is part of early-stage planning, including surveys, environmental assessments and consultations with affected communities.

According to the delegation, the Olokola deep-sea port is designed to serve as a major logistics gateway for imports, exports and regional trade flows, with the capacity to reduce pressure on existing Nigerian ports.

The facility is also expected to function as an industrial and maritime hub supporting the export of fertilisers, petrochemicals and refined petroleum products, while also facilitating future liquefied natural gas exports and the importation of heavy industrial equipment.

“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,” said Capt Abubakar.

He added that the project would create employment opportunities and stimulate long-term economic development across host communities in Ogun and Ondo states.

“With its strategic location, Olokola would serve as a key gateway for exports and imports, boosting Nigeria’s competitiveness in regional and global trade,” he said.

Abubakar noted that the seaport is intended to support an integrated industrial ecosystem that enhances Africa’s maritime logistics and regional commerce networks.

He further stated that the project reflects the company’s commitment to infrastructure development that delivers both economic and community-level benefits.

During the stakeholder engagements, the Dangote team visited Ode-Omi community in Ogun State as well as Araromi Seaside Kingdom and Igbokoda in Ondo State, accompanied by surveyors and environmental consultants.

Traditional rulers in the affected communities expressed support for the project and welcomed its potential economic impact.

The Lenuwa of Ode-Omi, Oba Folailu Adekunle Hassan (Oshotekun II), said the community had long anticipated such investment and pledged cooperation with the development process.

“We have been expecting you for a long time. It is good that you are here today,” the monarch said.

He approved the commencement of preliminary activities, including surveys, enumeration of households, assessment of economic trees and compensation processes for affected residents.

Similarly, the Alara of Araromi Seaside Kingdom, Oba Adeoloye Olawole, also expressed support for the project and welcomed its commencement.

“We can’t wait for this project to commence. We are going to give you physical and spiritual support,” he said.

The delegation also visited the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base in Igbokoda, Ondo State, where naval authorities reportedly pledged cooperation with the project in support of national economic development.

Dangote Industries Limited said the proposed port is expected to generate significant job opportunities, attract foreign direct investment and strengthen Nigeria’s logistics and manufacturing sectors.

The company added that the project would contribute to export diversification and enhance Nigeria’s participation in regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area framework.