Dangote Group has activated plans for the Olokola Seaport project in Ogun State as part of efforts to strengthen industrial logistics, export operations, and maritime infrastructure in Nigeria. The development signals renewed investment activity around the Olokola Free Trade Zone after years of limited progress on the project.
President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, disclosed the development during a meeting with Governor Dapo Abiodun in Abeokuta. He explained that the proposed seaport would complement the group’s industrial operations and improve cargo movement linked to manufacturing, refining, and export activities.
According to Dangote, the Olokola Seaport initiative forms part of broader industrial expansion plans involving cement production, petrochemicals, and logistics infrastructure within Ogun State. He stated that the project would support Nigeria’s industrialisation goals by reducing transportation bottlenecks and improving export efficiency.
The Olokola Free Trade Zone, located between Ogun and Ondo states, was originally conceived as a major industrial and export-processing hub designed to attract manufacturing and energy investments. Previous refinery and industrial projects linked to the zone experienced delays and restructuring over the years.
Dangote Group had earlier withdrawn from parts of the Olokola refinery initiative before shifting major refining investments to the Lekki Free Zone in Lagos, where the Dangote Refinery was later developed. The renewed focus on the Olokola Seaport project suggests a return of large-scale industrial infrastructure plans within the Ogun axis as private sector investment activities continue to expand.
Dangote stated that the proposed seaport would improve access to maritime logistics for industries operating within the region. He added that efficient port infrastructure remained critical to large-scale industrial operations due to rising export demand and cargo handling requirements.
Governor Abiodun welcomed the investment plan and described the Olokola Seaport initiative as important to Ogun State’s economic development strategy. According to the governor, the project could generate employment opportunities, increase industrial activity, and strengthen the state’s role within Nigeria’s manufacturing and logistics sectors.
The governor also noted that Ogun State continues to attract major industrial investments because of its proximity to Lagos, transport connectivity, and expanding infrastructure network.
Industry analysts say the proposed seaport could help reduce pressure on existing port infrastructure in Lagos while supporting export-oriented industries operating across southwestern Nigeria.
The Olokola Seaport project also aligns with ongoing federal and state efforts aimed at improving maritime infrastructure, industrial corridors, and non-oil export capacity. Experts note that expanded port infrastructure could improve supply chain efficiency, reduce logistics costs, and strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness within regional and international trade markets.
