By Afolabi Nelson
Africa’s richest man and president of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has unveiled plans to construct what he describes as Nigeria’s largest and deepest seaport, to be located in Olokola, Ogun State.
In an interview with Bloomberg, Dangote confirmed that formal applications have already been submitted for the ambitious Atlantic-facing port project, which he believes will transform the nation’s export landscape—particularly for products like liquefied natural gas (LNG).
“This port will be the deepest and biggest in the country,” Dangote said, highlighting the project’s potential to streamline export operations and support the growth of his rapidly expanding industrial ventures.
The billionaire entrepreneur emphasized that while the initiative is being spearheaded by his company, the long-term goal is to inspire broader private sector participation. “It’s not about monopolizing infrastructure,” he noted. “We’re showing what’s possible, and we hope others will follow.”
The Olokola site represents a revival of earlier plans Dangote shelved years ago, following a dispute with local authorities over a previously proposed refinery and fertilizer complex. However, he says political conditions have now shifted in his favor.
Crediting Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun for renewed state-level cooperation, Dangote remarked, “It’s because of His Excellency, our governor, that we’ve returned. Construction in the area has since resumed.”
The new seaport, if realized, would serve as a critical logistics and export hub, potentially reducing the pressure on existing ports in Lagos while unlocking economic opportunities for southwestern Nigeria.
