Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group, has reaffirmed his commitment to Ogun State’s economic development with a fresh investment of $700 million.
The funds will be channeled into multiple business sectors, including the construction of Africa’s largest seaport at the Olokola Free Trade Zone (OKFTZ).
Speaking during an inspection tour of the Itori cement plant on Monday, Dangote attributed his renewed interest in Ogun to the investor-friendly policies of Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration.
He emphasized that the improved ease of doing business in the state has restored confidence in Ogun as an attractive destination for large-scale investments.
“We earlier on abandoned our vision of investing in the Olokola Free Trade Zone (OKFTZ), but because of your policies and investor-friendly environment, I want to say we are back and are going to work with the state government and return to Olokola,” Dangote stated. “Plans are underway to construct the largest port in the country.”
Dangote also highlighted the rapid growth of cement production in the state, noting that the newly established 6.0 million metric tons per annum cement plant at Itori, combined with the already completed 12 million metric tons per annum plant at Ibeshe, brings total output to 18 million metric tons annually.
“With the contributions of other cement producers in the state, Ogun remains far ahead of other countries across Africa in terms of cement production,” he remarked.
Expressing gratitude to traditional rulers and the people of Ogun for their support, the business mogul assured host communities of continued commitment to corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Governor Dapo Abiodun, in his response, lauded Dangote’s resilience and patriotism in bringing back significant investments to the state despite past challenges.
“I want to thank you for coming back to Ogun State and also for your belief and trust in your country, Nigeria,” Abiodun stated. “The way you selflessly continue to promote this country all over the world, we can’t thank you enough. Your life and story continue to be an inspiring narrative to all young men.”
He further acknowledged the historical significance of Dangote’s return, linking it to the entrepreneur’s milestone achievements in March, including the groundbreaking of his Lagos refinery.
“Not only have you chosen to complete Itori, you have chosen to come back and develop the biggest port in Nigeria. For this, I thank you,” the governor added.
