At a Glance
- Ogun State is set to become Africa’s top cement producer with Dangote Cement’s expansion.
- Dangote’s $800 million Itori plant will raise Ogun’s cement output to 18 million metric tons.
- Dangote revives Olokola Free Trade Zone, aiming to build Nigeria’s largest seaport.
Ogun State is on track to become Africa’s top cement-producing state or region, bolstered by the expansion of Dangote Cement, the continent’s leading cement producer.
Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, reaffirmed this vision during a visit to the $800 million Itori cement factory, which is expected to be completed by November 2026.
Dangote Cement expands production in Ogun
The Itori plant, with a capacity of 6 million metric tons per year, will push Ogun State’s total cement output to 18 million metric tons annually, the highest in Africa.
Dangote emphasized that the project had faced delays under former Governor Ibikunle Amosun but is now progressing under Governor Dapo Abiodun’s leadership.
Ogun State already hosts Dangote Cement’s 12-million-metric-ton-per-year Ibese plant, along with major Lafarge Africa operations in Ewekoro, Sagamu, and Ifo. This combined capacity solidifies the state’s status as Nigeria’s industrial hub.
Reviving the Olokola Free Trade Zone
Beyond cement, Dangote is reviving the long-abandoned Olokola Free Trade Zone, a 10,500-hectare industrial project stalled since 2004 due to legal and infrastructural challenges.
With renewed government support, the project will now include Nigeria’s largest seaport, set to enhance trade and attract billions in foreign investment.
“The Olokola Free Trade Zone will be a game changer,” Dangote said. “With Governor Abiodun’s policies, we are back on track to build a world-class industrial hub.”
The Free Trade Zone is expected to boost Nigeria’s manufacturing sector and create thousands of jobs, positioning Ogun as a key player in West Africa’s trade and industrial landscape.
