Dangote Unveils Plans for Nigeria’s Largest Seaport and New Cement Factory
Aliko Dangote plans to build Nigeria’s largest seaport and has resumed construction of a cement factory in Itori. These initiatives aim to enhance Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in cement and fertilizer production. The cement factory is slated for completion by November 2026, significantly boosting the region’s industrial capacity while transforming Nigeria into a significant player in the export market.
Aliko Dangote, the esteemed President of Dangote Group, has announced plans to construct Nigeria’s largest seaport at the Olokola Free Trade Zone in Ogun State. This significant development was revealed during a visit to the state governor, indicating a renewed commitment to investment in the region, influenced by the favorable policies of Governor Dapo Abiodun.
In parallel, Dangote Group has resumed the construction of a cement factory in Itori, with a production capacity of 6 million metric tons per annum. Scheduled for completion in November 2026, this factory is part of an extensive plan to enhance Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in cement production and reduce dependence on imports.
Dangote expressed his disappointment regarding the initial delays in the Itori cement factory project, which has an estimated cost of nearly $800 million. These delays stemmed from opposition faced during the tenure of former Governor Ibikunle Amosun, yet progress is now underway, with substantial developments noted in the construction of two new lines of cement production.
With the anticipated completion of the Itori facility, Ogun State’s total cement production capacity will reach 18 million metric tons per annum. This achievement positions Ogun State as the highest cement-producing region in Africa, bolstered by the existing 12-million-metric-ton-per-annum Dangote Cement Plant located in Ibese.
Aliko Dangote emphasized his company’s dual role in driving Nigeria’s self-sufficiency. The investments in cement manufacturing have facilitated the elimination of import dependencies, transforming Nigeria into a cement-exporting nation. Moreover, similar strides have been achieved in fertilizer production, allowing Nigeria not only to fulfill domestic needs but to export surplus products, thus generating significant foreign exchange for the nation.
Additionally, Dangote highlighted the progress of his petroleum refinery, which operates at a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day. This facility has commenced the exportation of refined crude products while concurrently working towards decreasing domestic fuel prices, contributing further to Nigeria’s economic resilience and self-sufficiency across industries.
In summary, Aliko Dangote’s initiatives signify a robust commitment to boosting Nigeria’s industrial capacity through the construction of the largest seaport and a significant cement factory in Ogun State. These efforts reflect a broader vision of national self-sufficiency in cement and fertilizer production, alongside advancements in the petroleum sector. As the country gears toward enhanced production capabilities, these developments are poised to yield economic growth and stability.
Original Source: africa.businessinsider.com
