Dangote Begins Plans for Deep-Sea Port at Olokola Free Trade Zone

Dangote Industries Limited has commenced early-stage activities for the development of a large-scale deep-sea port within the Olokola Free Trade Zone as the conglomerate intensifies efforts to expand its industrial and logistics footprint across Nigeria’s coastal corridor.

The proposed maritime infrastructure project, which spans more than 10,000 hectares along the Atlantic coastline, is expected to become one of the largest private port developments in the country once completed.

The planned facility is strategically positioned across parts of Ogun and Ondo states and is designed to support industrial exports, cargo movement and long-term regional trade integration.

Company officials said the project forms part of Dangote Industries’ broader long-term growth strategy aimed at strengthening supply chain efficiency, expanding export capabilities and supporting industrial operations linked to fertiliser, refining, petrochemicals and other manufacturing activities.

A delegation from the company recently visited several host communities and institutions within the project corridor to begin consultations ahead of environmental studies, land assessments and other preparatory activities required for execution.

The delegation engaged community leaders and local stakeholders in areas including Ode-Omi, Araromi and Igbokoda as part of efforts to secure cooperation and establish communication channels with affected communities.

Management said the deep-sea port would help reduce pressure on existing Nigerian ports while positioning the country as a stronger gateway for regional maritime trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area framework.

According to the company, the proposed facility is expected to serve as an integrated logistics hub capable of handling exports, imports and industrial cargo tied to large-scale manufacturing operations.

The project is also expected to improve evacuation infrastructure for refined petroleum products, fertiliser exports and future energy-related shipments while supporting broader industrial activities across the region.

Traditional rulers within the host communities welcomed the initiative and expressed optimism that the project would generate economic opportunities through employment, infrastructure development and increased commercial activity.

The company noted that engagement with host communities would continue throughout the planning and implementation phases of the project.

Security agencies within the coastal axis also pledged support for the initiative, describing the project as one capable of contributing significantly to economic growth and maritime development.

Industry analysts believe the development could further strengthen Dangote Industries’ position within Nigeria’s industrial sector while enhancing the country’s export infrastructure and logistics competitiveness across West Africa.

The Olokola project comes as Nigeria continues to push for increased non-oil exports, deeper industrialisation and improved trade infrastructure to support long-term economic expansion.