Business mogul and President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has reaffirmed his commitment to positioning Ogun State as Africa’s top cement-producing region, with a projected production capacity of 18 million metric tons per annum upon completion of his company’s ongoing projects. He also announced plans to collaborate with the Ogun State government on developing the country’s largest seaport at Olokola.
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During a visit to Governor Dapo Abiodun in Abeokuta, Dangote credited the governor’s investor-friendly policies for rekindling his interest in expanding operations in the state. He disclosed that past hostilities, including the demolition of his factory on two separate occasions under a previous administration, had forced him to abandon his projects. However, with renewed confidence in the current leadership, he has resumed full-scale investment.
Dangote highlighted significant developments at the Itori cement plant, where two new production lines with a combined capacity of six million metric tons per annum have been installed. Additionally, the company’s Ibeshe plant will contribute another 12 million metric tons, solidifying Ogun State’s dominance in the African cement industry.
Beyond cement production, Dangote reiterated his broader vision of achieving national self-sufficiency in essential commodities. He emphasized that Dangote Cement remains Africa’s leading cement producer, with a total capacity of 52 million metric tons per annum, 70% of which is produced in Nigeria. The Obajana plant in Kogi State alone accounts for 16.25 million metric tons annually, making it the largest cement facility on the continent.
His diversification efforts have also yielded remarkable progress in petrochemical manufacturing. The company’s 900,000 metric tons per annum polypropylene plant is set to launch in April 2025, adding to the variety of petroleum-based products already being produced. Meanwhile, the Dangote Refinery in Ibeju-Lekki continues to supply the nation with petrol, aviation fuel, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), significantly reducing import dependency.
Expressing gratitude to the people of Itori and Yewaland for their support, Dangote assured that his company remains committed to fulfilling its corporate social responsibilities in host communities. He further underscored the importance of private sector investment in driving economic growth, pledging continued contributions to Nigeria’s industrialization.
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Governor Abiodun welcomed Dangote’s renewed interest in Ogun State, describing it as a historic moment. He recalled how the state lost the opportunity to host the Dangote Refinery to Lagos, a move that was deeply disappointing for many indigenes. However, he celebrated the businessman’s return and commended his unwavering dedication to national development.
Meanwhile, former Governor Ibikunle Amosun responded to Dangote’s allegations that his administration was responsible for demolishing the Itori cement plant. In a statement released by his media office, Amosun dismissed the claims as unfounded, insisting that all land acquisitions and business operations in the state must adhere to proper regulatory approvals. He maintained that no individual or corporation was above the law and challenged Dangote to provide documentary evidence supporting his claims.
Amosun also highlighted his administration’s efforts in attracting investments, noting that under his tenure, Ogun State became Nigeria’s industrial hub, accounting for 75% of foreign direct investment in the manufacturing sector. He cited acknowledgments from the World Bank and former President Goodluck Jonathan, who praised the state’s economic policies and business-friendly environment.
As Ogun State regains its position as a prime investment destination, Dangote’s massive industrial expansion signals a new era of economic transformation, further strengthening Nigeria’s status as a self-sustaining powerhouse in key sectors.
