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Africa’s Richest Man Set to Build Nigeria’s Largest Seaport & 6Mta Cement Plant in Ogun

By Achimi Muktar

Billionaire industrialist Aliko Dangote is making another power move—this time, bringing Nigeria’s largest seaport and a massive 6 million metric tons per annum (Mta) cement plant to Ogun State. These projects, set to boost the state’s economy and create thousands of jobs, mark Dangote’s return to the region after years of stalled investments.

During a high-profile visit to Governor Dapo Abiodun in Abeokuta, Dangote announced his ambitious plans to develop a multi-billion-dollar seaport at Olokola and expand his cement production capacity with a new plant in Itori. These investments, he said, are driven by Ogun State’s investor-friendly policies and the governor’s vision to make the state Nigeria’s manufacturing powerhouse.

From Abandoned Dreams to Mega Investments

Dangote revealed that his initial plans for the Olokola Free Trade Zone (OKFTZ) were abandoned years ago due to challenges, but the new business climate under Governor Abiodun convinced him to return.

"We had earlier abandoned our vision of investing in Olokola, but because of your policies and investor-friendly environment, I want to say we are back," Dangote stated. "Plans are underway to construct the largest port in the country."

This new seaport, once completed, will be Nigeria’s biggest, further solidifying Ogun State as a major logistics and industrial hub.

Cement Production Set to Skyrocket

Dangote also provided an update on his cement operations, revealing that two new production lines, with a combined capacity of 6 million metric tons per annum, are currently under construction in Itori. This is in addition to the existing 12Mta cement plant at Ibeshe.

Upon completion, Ogun State will boast an 18Mta cement production capacity, making it the highest-producing region in Africa.

"With the contributions of other cement producers in the state, Ogun remains far ahead of other countries across Africa in terms of cement production," Dangote noted.

Dangote’s Economic Impact on Nigeria

With Dangote Cement’s total production capacity across Africa standing at 52Mta, Nigeria remains the dominant player, accounting for 70% of this figure. The Obajana plant in Kogi State alone produces 16.25Mta, making it the largest in Africa.

Beyond cement, Dangote’s investments in fertilizer and petroleum products have also transformed Nigeria’s economic landscape. His 650,000 barrels-per-day refinery in Lagos has already made Nigeria self-sufficient in Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), aviation fuel, and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).

"Our goal is to make Nigeria self-sufficient in whatever it consumes," Dangote emphasized.

A Billionaire’s Commitment to Nation-Building

Dangote credited the people of Yewaland and traditional rulers for their support, which has helped facilitate the smooth takeoff of the Itori cement plant. He also reaffirmed his company’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, including the construction of the Papalanto concrete-paved road under the Federal Government’s tax credit scheme.

Governor Abiodun, in his response, hailed Dangote’s return as a historic moment for Ogun State.

"The groundbreaking of the Dangote Refinery in Lagos was a heartbreaking day for the sons and daughters of Ogun State. But today, you have returned with an even bigger vision," Abiodun said. "With these new projects, Ogun is now set to become Nigeria’s industrial capital."

The governor praised Dangote’s influence, describing him as an inspiration to young Nigerians and a model for private-sector-driven economic growth.

What This Means for Nigeria

With the development of Nigeria’s largest seaport and the rapid expansion of cement production, Dangote’s latest investments could have a transformative impact on the country’s economy. These projects will not only create thousands of jobs but also strengthen Nigeria’s position as a self-sufficient industrial hub in Africa.

From abandoned plans to groundbreaking projects, Aliko Dangote has once again proven that his vision for Nigeria is as strong as ever. And with Ogun State now at the center of his empire’s expansion, the future looks brighter than ever for the state and the entire nation.