Africa’s leading industrialist and President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has announced that upon the completion of his cement plants in Ogun State, the total capacity will reach 18 million metric tons per annum, making Ogun the highest cement-producing state or region in Africa.
Dangote, who revealed this during a courtesy visit to Governor Dapo Abiodun at the governor’s office in Abeokuta, attributed his return to Ogun State to the vision and investor-friendly policies of the current administration. He also disclosed plans to revive his investment in the Olokola Free Trade Zone (OKFTZ) with the construction of the largest port in Nigeria.
“I would especially like to commend, in a special way, my good friend and brother, Your Excellency, the governor of Ogun State, for your vision and deliberate policies that focus on attracting enterprises through immense support for the private sector, which is now attracting investors,” Dangote said.
Recounting past challenges, Dangote alleged that the previous administration of Senator Ibikunle Amosun demolished his factory at Itori twice, which led him to leave the state. “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. But right now, because of His Excellency, our governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, we are back. When you visit the factory, you will be surprised at what we have done,” he stated.
Dangote also reiterated his commitment to working with the Ogun State government to return to Olokola, emphasizing that plans were in place to construct Nigeria’s largest port in the area.
Providing an update on ongoing projects, Dangote revealed that two new cement production lines with a capacity of six million metric tons per annum had been established at Itori, while an additional 12 million metric tons per annum facility was set up at Ibeshe. This expansion places Ogun State at the forefront of cement production on the African continent.
“With the contributions of other cement producers in the state, Ogun remains far ahead of other countries across Africa in terms of cement production,” Dangote added.
Dangote Cement currently leads Africa’s cement production with a total capacity of 52 million metric tons per annum across the continent, with Nigeria accounting for 70 percent of the production. He highlighted that the investment in cement production had made Nigeria self-sufficient in the product, mirroring similar successes in fertilizer production, with surplus exports earning foreign exchange.
The Dangote Group also continues to play a crucial role in Nigeria’s energy sector, meeting domestic demand for petrol, aviation fuel, and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) through its 650,000 barrels per day refinery in Ibeju-Lekki.
Governor Dapo Abiodun expressed gratitude to Dangote for returning to Ogun State and acknowledged his substantial contributions to Nigeria’s economy. “I want to thank you for coming back to Ogun State and also for your belief and trust in your country, Nigeria. Your life and story continue to be an inspiring narrative for all young men. You have excelled everywhere you touch; you have the Midas touch,” Abiodun said.
He further described Dangote’s decision to return as a historic moment, adding, “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.”
Traditional rulers and local communities also lauded Dangote’s investments, assuring him of their support and partnership.
In reaction to Dangote’s allegations regarding the demolition of his factory, former Governor Ibikunle Amosun dismissed the claims, stating that he was not someone who could be “compromised, bullied, or blackmailed.”
A statement from the Senator Ibikunle Amosun Media Office, signed by Lanre Akinwale, refuted Dangote’s allegations and challenged him to provide documentary evidence of his land acquisition and relevant planning approvals. “Not all Nigerians can be compromised, bullied, or blackmailed. The notion that everyone has a price is an expression applicable only to people with weak foundations and questionable upbringing,” the statement read.
Amosun highlighted that under his administration, Ogun State became Nigeria’s industrial capital, attracting over 500 companies and securing recognition from the World Bank for significant improvements in ease of doing business.
As the debate continues, all eyes are on Ogun State as it embarks on a new chapter of industrial growth, spearheaded by Dangote’s investments and the state’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment.
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