Why we are returning to Ogun State to build Port, cement plant — Dangote
…As Abiodun lauds Dangote for construction of Sagamu-Papalato-Ilaro road
The President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has stated that his company decided to reinvest in Ogun State due to the visionary leadership and deliberate investor-centric policies of the Prince Dapo Abiodun administration.
Dangote, who made this disclosure on Monday during a courtesy visit to the governor at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, described Ogun State as one of Nigeria’s most attractive investment destinations, positioning itself as the country’s manufacturing hub.
He stated: “I would like to particularly commend my good friend and brother, His Excellency, the Governor of Ogun State, for his foresight and well-thought-out policies aimed at attracting businesses. His immense support for the private sector is encouraging investors to return.”
Recalling past challenges faced by his company, Dangote revealed: “Our factory at Itori was demolished twice. The second time we attempted reconstruction, not only was the factory brought down again, but the fence as well. So, we left. However, because of His Excellency, Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, we are back. When you visit the site, you will be amazed at the level of work we have done.”
He further stated that the company had previously abandoned its plans to invest in the Olokola Free Trade Zone (OKFTZ), but due to the business-friendly environment created by the current administration, the project is being reconsidered.
“I want to confirm that we are back and will collaborate with the state government to revive the Olokola project. Plans are already in motion to develop the largest port in the country,” he pledged.
Providing an update on ongoing investments, Dangote disclosed that two new production lines, each with a capacity of six million metric tonnes per annum, have been installed at the Itori cement plant. Additionally, the Ibeshe plant now boasts a 12 million metric tonnes per annum production capacity.
Once completed, he assured that the combined capacity of Dangote Cement’s operations in Ogun State would reach approximately 18 million metric tonnes per annum, making it the largest cement-producing region in Africa.
“With contributions from other cement manufacturers in the state, Ogun remains far ahead of several African nations in cement production,” he noted.
Dangote Cement remains the leading cement producer in Africa, with a total production capacity of 52 million metric tonnes per annum across the continent. He noted that 70% of the company’s total cement production occurs in Nigeria, with the Obajana plant in Kogi State, producing 16.25 million metric tonnes per annum, ranking as Africa’s largest cement plant.
Dangote further revealed that investments in local manufacturing have significantly contributed to Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in cement production. He added that similar strides have been made in fertiliser production, with surplus supplies now being exported, thereby boosting Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings.
Regarding the company’s contributions to the energy sector, Dangote disclosed that Nigeria is now meeting its domestic demand for Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) through the company’s 650,000 barrels per day refinery at Ibeju-Lekki. The refinery also produces aviation fuel and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) for the Nigerian market.
“Nigeria is a growing economy that requires private-sector collaboration to complement government efforts. We remain committed to investing in transformational projects that will drive economic growth and improve livelihoods,” he affirmed.
He also expressed gratitude to traditional rulers and the people of Itori for their unwavering support, which facilitated the seamless development of the cement plant. He assured that Dangote Group would continue to fulfil its Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) to host communities.
In response, Governor Dapo Abiodun described the return of Dangote Group to Ogun State as a significant milestone, recalling the disappointment felt when the Dangote Refinery groundbreaking was held in Lagos instead of Olokola.
He stated: “The day the Dangote Refinery groundbreaking took place in Lagos was heartbreaking for the sons and daughters of Ogun State, as they watched helplessly on television, realising the project had been moved from Olokola.”
Governor Abiodun expressed appreciation for Dangote’s renewed confidence in Ogun State, acknowledging the massive employment opportunities and economic impact brought by the company’s investments.
“I want to thank you for returning to Ogun State and for your unwavering belief in Nigeria. Your contributions, the thousands of jobs you have created, and the economic transformation you continue to drive are commendable,” he said.
He also lauded Dangote’s global reputation, noting: “The way you passionately promote Nigeria on the international stage is remarkable. Your success story serves as an inspiration for young entrepreneurs. Everywhere you invest, you create prosperity—it is truly the Midas touch.”
Governor Abiodun further underscored the economic significance of the Itori and Ibeshe cement plants, stating that the combined 18 million metric tonnes per annum capacity would position Ogun State as the largest cement-producing region in sub-Saharan Africa.
He also acknowledged Dangote Group’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), citing the ongoing construction of the Interchange-Papalanto-Ilaro road, and reaffirmed the state government’s readiness to support the company’s investments for the benefit of Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole.
“With your return, we look forward to even greater developments. Today, March 17, 2025, marks a historic moment—just as March was significant for the refinery groundbreaking in Lagos, it is now the month of your comeback to Ogun State. Not only are you completing the Itori project, but you are also set to develop the largest port in Nigeria. For this, we express our heartfelt gratitude,” he concluded.
