Dangote Begins Massive Deep-Sea Port Project in Ogun, Eyes Africa Trade Expansion

Dangote Industries Limited has officially begun preliminary processes for the construction of a massive deep-sea port at the Olokola Free Trade Zone in Ogun State, in what could become one of the biggest maritime and industrial projects in Nigeria.

The proposed seaport, which will cover more than 10,000 hectares along the Atlantic coastline, is part of the company’s long-term Vision 2030 expansion plan aimed at transforming Dangote into a global industrial and manufacturing powerhouse.

According to the company, the port will serve as a major logistics and industrial hub designed to support exports, imports, regional trade, and large-scale industrial activities across Africa.

The project site stretches from Ogun Waterside Local Government Area into Ilaje Local Government Area.

A delegation led by Capt. Jamil Abubakar, Managing Director of Infrastructure and Logistics at Dangote Industries, recently visited host communities in both Ogun and Ondo states to begin stakeholder consultations ahead of construction.

Speaking during the visit, Abubakar described the project as a game changer for Nigeria’s economy and Africa’s maritime trade network.

“The Olokola Port project is a major step in opening up Nigeria’s economic potential, strengthening trade, reducing pressure on existing ports, and supporting industrial growth,” he said.

He explained that the port would support the export of fertilisers, petrochemicals, refined petroleum products, and future liquefied natural gas exports, while also handling the importation of heavy industrial equipment.

According to Dangote Industries, the project is expected to:

• Create thousands of jobs

• Attract foreign investors

• Boost manufacturing and logistics

• Improve Nigeria’s export capacity

• Strengthen trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)

Traditional rulers in the host communities welcomed the development with excitement.

The Lenuwa of Ode-Omi, Oba Folailu Adekunle Hassan, expressed full support for the project and approved the commencement of surveys and compensation processes.

Similarly, the Alara of Araromi Seaside Kingdom, Oba Adeoloye Olawole, promised both “physical and spiritual support” for the project.

The Dangote delegation also visited the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base in Igbokoda, where naval officials pledged cooperation toward securing and supporting the project.

If completed as planned, the Olokola Deep-Sea Port could significantly reduce pressure on existing Nigerian ports and position the country as one of Africa’s biggest maritime trade hubs.

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