The Dangote Group, the industrial empire led by Africa’s richest man Aliko Dangote, has submitted a bold new proposal to construct what could become Nigeria’s deepest and most significant seaport. The plan, delivered to Ogun State authorities in late June, outlines the development of a massive maritime hub within the Olokola Free Trade Zone (FTZ) in southwestern Nigeria.
If approved, the port could serve as a vital export route for a wide array of Dangote Group products including fertiliser, cement, oil, and liquefied natural gas while also energizing the regional economy and positioning Ogun State as a central node in West Africa’s logistics and trade network.
A Second Chance for the Olokola Free Trade Zone
The proposed site, the Olokola Free Trade Zone, is not unfamiliar to the Dangote Group. The industrial giant had previously considered establishing its petrochemical and fertiliser plants in the zone. However, unresolved administrative and regulatory issues with the former Ogun State government forced Dangote to relocate those investments closer to Lagos.
With a new state administration now in place, the group appears ready to revisit its ambitions for the zone. The new seaport proposal could breathe fresh life into Olokola, transforming the once-abandoned project into a thriving industrial corridor.
“This port has the potential to become a game-changer for Nigerian exports,” said a source close to the Dangote Group. “It would give us a direct and efficient outlet to global markets, which is critical for scaling operations and reducing logistics bottlenecks.”
Strategic Location to Boost Export Capacity
The proposed port location is strategically situated about 100 kilometers from Dangote’s flagship industrial complex in Lagos, which includes one of the world’s largest fertiliser plants and the recently inaugurated Dangote Refinery. The proximity would allow for quicker and more cost-effective transport of goods, potentially relieving pressure on Lagos’ congested Apapa Port.
Industry analysts believe that if the Olokola port becomes operational, it could drastically cut export turnaround times and attract foreign investment into Ogun State.
“Investing in modern port infrastructure is essential for economic diversification and regional development,” said Dr. Tunde Adebayo, an economist and logistics expert. “A port of this scale in Ogun could reduce dependency on Lagos and open up new industrial corridors in the southwest.”
Awaiting Government Approval
As of now, there is no official confirmation on whether Ogun State authorities have approved the project. However, sources indicate that discussions are ongoing, and the proposal is being reviewed with keen interest, given its potential impact on job creation, revenue generation, and infrastructure development.
The Dangote Group has not issued an official statement, but industry observers suggest that the conglomerate’s commitment to the project would likely depend on favorable regulatory conditions and infrastructure support from the government.
Looking Ahead: A Port of Promise
While the port’s future remains uncertain, the proposal signals a renewed commitment by the Dangote Group to invest heavily in Nigeria’s long-term industrial and export capacity. If realized, the project could reshape trade routes in West Africa and solidify Dangote’s role as a key player in global commodity markets.
For Ogun State, the proposal presents both a challenge and an opportunity, one that could redefine the region’s economic future if managed wisely.
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