Nigeria’s industrial expansion drive has gained fresh momentum as Aliko Dangote moves ahead with plans for the multi-billion-dollar Olokola Deep Seaport project in Ogun State.
Dangote Industries Limited has now commenced preliminary engagement, environmental consultations, and survey activities for the massive infrastructure development. The project forms a major pillar of the company’s ambitious Vision 2030 growth strategy.
The proposed seaport and industrial enclave will cover more than 10,000 hectares within the Olokola Free Trade Zone in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area. The development will also extend toward Ilaje Local Government Area in Ondo State along Nigeria’s Atlantic coastline.
Community leaders across the host regions have already endorsed the project. Many described it as a game-changing investment capable of transforming local economies, creating jobs, and attracting global investors to the region.
The project strengthens Dangote Industries’ push into maritime infrastructure, export logistics, and industrial expansion. At the same time, the company continues pursuing its target of becoming a $100 billion annual revenue enterprise within the next five years.
Leading the company’s delegation to the communities, Capt. Jamil Abubakar, Managing Director of Infrastructure and Logistics at Dangote Industries Limited, said the deep seaport would reposition the region as a major gateway for African trade.
According to him, the port will support a fully integrated industrial ecosystem designed to improve Nigeria’s export capacity and strengthen regional commerce across Africa.
He explained that the proposed port would serve as the logistics backbone for Dangote Industries. In addition, it will facilitate exports of fertiliser, petrochemicals, and refined petroleum products from Nigeria to international markets.
The infrastructure will also support future Liquefied Natural Gas exports while easing the importation of heavy industrial equipment needed for large-scale manufacturing and energy operations.
Capt. Abubakar said the Olokola Port project would unlock fresh economic opportunities for businesses and residents in Ogun and Ondo states. He added that the development would reduce pressure on existing Nigerian ports while improving the country’s competitiveness in global trade.
“The Olokola Port project is a major step in unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential, strengthening trade, reducing pressure on existing ports and supporting industrial growth. It will create real opportunities for host communities through jobs, business activities and long-term development across Ogun and Ondo states,” he stated.
He further noted that the strategic coastal location of the port would position Nigeria as a stronger player in regional and international maritime commerce.
During the visit, the delegation toured the Ode-Omi community in Ogun State alongside Araromi Seaside Kingdom and Igbokoda in Ondo State. Land surveyors, estate valuers, and environmental consultants joined the inspection and consultation meetings.
Traditional rulers and community stakeholders welcomed the initiative and pledged their support for the project. Many residents expressed optimism that the development would accelerate infrastructure growth, increase commercial activities, and improve livelihoods across the coastal corridor.
Industry analysts believe the Olokola Deep Seaport could become one of Nigeria’s most significant logistics and export hubs if completed successfully. The project also highlights growing private-sector investment in critical infrastructure as Africa’s largest economy seeks to boost non-oil exports and industrialisation.
With the Olokola Deep Seaport now entering its preliminary phase, Dangote Industries appears determined to reshape Nigeria’s maritime trade landscape while reinforcing its dominance across Africa’s industrial sector.
