Dangote Returns to Ogun with Massive Investments: Cement Plant, Seaport, and Controversy
Key Highlights:
• Dangote Group to establish an 18 million MTA cement plant in Itori, making Ogun the top cement-producing region in Africa.
• Plans underway for the largest seaport in Nigeria at Olokola Free Trade Zone.
• Dangote credits Governor Dapo Abiodun’s policies for his return after the previous administration allegedly demolished his factory twice.
• Former Governor Amosun refutes allegations, insists he cannot be bullied or compromised.
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Dangote’s Expansion: Cement and Seaport Investments
Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group, has announced a major expansion in Ogun State, revealing plans for an 18 million metric ton per annum (MTA) cement plant and the largest seaport in Nigeria at Olokola. The investment is expected to solidify Ogun’s status as Africa’s top cement-producing region.
During a courtesy visit to Governor Dapo Abiodun, Dangote expressed gratitude for the state’s pro-investment policies, crediting them for his decision to return after a long absence.
“Because of His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, we are back. When you visit our factory, you will be surprised at what we have done,” Dangote said.
The new cement plant will consist of two production lines at Itori, contributing six million MTA, alongside the 12 million MTA facility in Ibeshe.
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Why Dangote Left Ogun: Allegations Against Amosun’s Administration
Dangote alleged that his factory in Itori was demolished twice by the administration of former Governor Ibikunle Amosun, forcing him to abandon the project.
“Our factory at Itori was pulled down twice. When we started the second time, they not only demolished the factory but also the fence, so we left,” Dangote revealed.
However, in a strong rebuttal, Amosun dismissed the allegations, stating that he was not among those who could be compromised, bullied, or blackmailed.
“Dangote should furnish the public with details of his land acquisition and relevant approvals. There cannot be two governments in a state—he cannot operate above the law,” Amosun’s media office stated.
Despite the controversy, the investment marks a significant milestone for Ogun’s industrial landscape, with the cement plant and seaport expected to create thousands of jobs and boost the state’s economic profile.
Nigeria’s Industrial Growth: Dangote’s Impact
Dangote Cement remains the largest cement producer in Africa, with 52 million MTA across the continent. The new plant in Ogun, combined with other manufacturers in the state, will place Ogun far ahead of other African countries in cement production.
Additionally, the Dangote Group is set to unveil polypropylene products from its 900,000 MTA petrochemical plant in April 2025, further expanding its footprint in Nigeria’s industrial sector.
Governor Abiodun hailed Dangote’s return as a historic moment, marking a renewed era of investment and development in Ogun State.
“Not only have you chosen to complete Itori, but you have also chosen to come back and develop the biggest port in Nigeria. For this, I thank you,” Abiodun said.
With these ambitious projects, Dangote’s investments are poised to reshape Ogun State’s economy, reaffirming Nigeria’s position as a key player in Africa’s industrial and manufacturing sector.
Key Highlights:
• Dangote Group to establish an 18 million MTA cement plant in Itori, making Ogun the top cement-producing region in Africa.
• Plans underway for the largest seaport in Nigeria at Olokola Free Trade Zone.
• Dangote credits Governor Dapo Abiodun’s policies for his return after the previous administration allegedly demolished his factory twice.
• Former Governor Amosun refutes allegations, insists he cannot be bullied or compromised.
⸻
Dangote’s Expansion: Cement and Seaport Investments
Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group, has announced a major expansion in Ogun State, revealing plans for an 18 million metric ton per annum (MTA) cement plant and the largest seaport in Nigeria at Olokola. The investment is expected to solidify Ogun’s status as Africa’s top cement-producing region.
During a courtesy visit to Governor Dapo Abiodun, Dangote expressed gratitude for the state’s pro-investment policies, crediting them for his decision to return after a long absence.
“Because of His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, we are back. When you visit our factory, you will be surprised at what we have done,” Dangote said.
The new cement plant will consist of two production lines at Itori, contributing six million MTA, alongside the 12 million MTA facility in Ibeshe.
⸻
Why Dangote Left Ogun: Allegations Against Amosun’s Administration
Dangote alleged that his factory in Itori was demolished twice by the administration of former Governor Ibikunle Amosun, forcing him to abandon the project.
“Our factory at Itori was pulled down twice. When we started the second time, they not only demolished the factory but also the fence, so we left,” Dangote revealed.
However, in a strong rebuttal, Amosun dismissed the allegations, stating that he was not among those who could be compromised, bullied, or blackmailed.
“Dangote should furnish the public with details of his land acquisition and relevant approvals. There cannot be two governments in a state—he cannot operate above the law,” Amosun’s media office stated.
Despite the controversy, the investment marks a significant milestone for Ogun’s industrial landscape, with the cement plant and seaport expected to create thousands of jobs and boost the state’s economic profile.
Nigeria’s Industrial Growth: Dangote’s Impact
Dangote Cement remains the largest cement producer in Africa, with 52 million MTA across the continent. The new plant in Ogun, combined with other manufacturers in the state, will place Ogun far ahead of other African countries in cement production.
Additionally, the Dangote Group is set to unveil polypropylene products from its 900,000 MTA petrochemical plant in April 2025, further expanding its footprint in Nigeria’s industrial sector.
Governor Abiodun hailed Dangote’s return as a historic moment, marking a renewed era of investment and development in Ogun State.
“Not only have you chosen to complete Itori, but you have also chosen to come back and develop the biggest port in Nigeria. For this, I thank you,” Abiodun said.
With these ambitious projects, Dangote’s investments are poised to reshape Ogun State’s economy, reaffirming Nigeria’s position as a key player in Africa’s industrial and manufacturing sector.