Dangote Begins Preliminary Work on Multi-Billion-Dollar Olokola Seaport in Ogun

Dangote Industries Limited has commenced preliminary processes for the construction of a deep-sea port spanning over 10,000 hectares at the Olokola Free Trade Zone in Ogun State, as part of its expansion into logistics, maritime infrastructure, and export-led industrialisation.

The company announced that the multi-billion-dollar project is a core component of its Vision 2030 agenda, aimed at transforming the group into a globally recognised industrial and manufacturing leader.

The proposed deep seaport, located in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area and extending toward Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State along the Atlantic coastline, is expected to serve as a logistics and industrial hub for exports, imports, and regional trade.

A delegation from the company, led by the Managing Director of Infrastructure and Logistics, recently visited host communities in Ogun and Ondo states to commence stakeholder engagements ahead of project execution.

During the visit, the delegation stated that the Olokola Port project would transform host communities, create jobs, and strengthen Africa’s maritime trade capacity. He noted that the facility would reduce pressure on existing ports and support industrial growth while opening up Nigeria’s economic potential.

The deep seaport has been designed as a logistics gateway for an integrated industrial ecosystem that would support the export of fertilisers, petrochemicals, and refined petroleum products. It will also facilitate future liquefied natural gas exports and the importation of heavy industrial equipment.

Traditional rulers in the host communities welcomed the project and pledged their support. The Lenuwa of Ode-Omi approved the commencement of surveys and other preliminary activities, including the enumeration of households, economic trees, and compensation arrangements for affected communities.

Similarly, the Alara of Araromi Seaside Kingdom expressed strong backing for the project, stating that his community would provide both physical and spiritual support.

The delegation also visited the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base in Igbokoda, Ondo State, where the Acting Commanding Officer pledged the Navy’s cooperation in support of national economic development.

Dangote Industries stated that the proposed seaport would drive job creation, attract foreign direct investment, and stimulate sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and services. The company added that the project would strengthen Nigeria’s export diversification drive and improve participation in intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area.