Dangote Unveils Plans for Multi-Billion-Dollar Olokola Deep Seaport

By Adebola Isimijola, Lagos

Dangote Industries Limited has commenced preliminary processes for the development of a multi-billion-dollar deep seaport at the Olokola Free Trade Zone as part of its broader investment drive in logistics, maritime infrastructure, and export-oriented industrialisation.

The proposed seaport, expected to span over 10,000 hectares, is a major component of the company’s Vision 2030 agenda designed to position the group as a global leader in industrial and manufacturing operations.

Situated in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area of Ogun State and stretching toward Ilaje Local Government Area in Ondo State along the Atlantic coastline, the facility is projected to become a strategic hub for imports, exports, and regional commerce.

A delegation from Dangote Industries, led by the Managing Director for Infrastructure and Logistics, Capt. Jamil Abubakar, has already begun consultations with host communities in Ogun and Ondo states ahead of the project’s implementation.

Speaking during the engagement, Abubakar said the proposed port would significantly enhance Nigeria’s trade capacity, reduce pressure on existing seaports, and create economic opportunities for neighbouring communities.

“The Olokola Port project will help open up Nigeria’s economic potential by strengthening trade and supporting industrial growth. It will also create jobs, stimulate business activities, and drive long-term development across host communities,” he stated.

He further explained that the deep seaport is intended to serve as a logistics gateway for an integrated industrial ecosystem that would strengthen regional trade and supply chain networks across Africa.

According to him, the facility is expected to support the export of fertilisers, petrochemicals, and refined petroleum products, while also providing infrastructure for future liquefied natural gas exports and the importation of heavy industrial equipment.

As part of the preliminary activities, the Dangote delegation, accompanied by surveyors and environmental consultants, visited several host communities, including Ode-Omi in Ogun State, as well as Araromi Seaside Kingdom and Igbokoda in Ondo State.

The Lenuwa of Ode-Omi, Oba Folailu Adekunle Hassan, welcomed the initiative and pledged the community’s support, approving the commencement of surveys, asset enumeration, and compensation procedures.

Similarly, the Alara of Araromi Seaside Kingdom, Oba Adeoloye Olawole, expressed optimism about the project and assured the company of the community’s cooperation.

The delegation also visited the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base in Igbokoda, where the Acting Commanding Officer, Lt. Commander A.A. Makinwa, pledged the Navy’s support for the successful execution of the project.

Dangote Industries said the proposed seaport is expected to attract foreign direct investment, create employment opportunities, and stimulate growth across sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and services.

The company added that the project would further strengthen Nigeria’s export diversification efforts and boost the country’s participation in intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area framework.