Dangote to Build Nigeria's Largest Industrial, Free Trade Zone in Ondo

President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has announced plans to develop what he described as Nigeria's largest industrial and free trade zone in Olokola, Ondo State, in a renewed push to boost manufacturing, attract investment and create jobs.

Dangote unveiled the plan during a courtesy visit to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa at the Government House in Akure, where he outlined a comprehensive investment package covering power generation, gas infrastructure, cement production and industrial manufacturing.

He was accompanied by the Vice President of Dangote Industries Limited, Olakunle Alake, and the company's Managing Director for Logistics and Infrastructure, Capt. Jamil Abubakar.

Speaking during the visit, Dangote said the proposed Olokola Industrial and Free Trade Zone would be designed as a fully integrated industrial ecosystem, providing investors with essential infrastructure needed to establish businesses without the delays associated with inadequate public utilities.

"We want to create the biggest free trade zone where investors can just come and plug in. We will generate power, provide infrastructure and remove the bottlenecks around doing business," he said.

According to him, the project is intended to address one of Nigeria's biggest challenges to industrial growth the persistent shortage of reliable electricity.

Dangote noted that for more than three decades, inadequate power supply has remained a major obstacle to industrial expansion, forcing many manufacturers to rely on expensive self-generated electricity.

He explained that the proposed industrial zone would integrate dedicated power generation alongside water, transport and logistics infrastructure to provide investors with a seamless operating environment.

The business mogul also disclosed plans to develop gas infrastructure through an east-west gas corridor to support energy-intensive industries expected to operate within the industrial hub.

Dangote recalled that his company had previously attempted to establish major investments in Olokola but encountered operational challenges that ultimately shifted several projects to Lagos.

He said the renewed investment initiative reflects improved conditions and stronger collaboration with the Ondo State Government.

According to him, contractors are expected to mobilise to the project site within the next three to four months, while full construction is scheduled to commence in the last quarter of the year.

Dangote also proposed government participation in the project, requesting that the Ondo State Government nominate a representative to serve on the board overseeing the industrial zone.

He expressed confidence that the development would stimulate large-scale industrialisation, generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs and significantly boost exports, citing the economic impact of similar Dangote investments in Lagos.

Responding, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the proposed investment as a major milestone in Ondo State's industrialisation drive.

The governor said the project aligns with his administration's strategy of positioning Ondo as a preferred destination for manufacturing and large-scale investment in the South-West.

He highlighted the state's strategic location along the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway corridor, describing it as a significant advantage for logistics and industrial development.

Aiyedatiwa also pointed to Ondo's deep seaport licence, noting that it would provide a competitive advantage by accommodating large vessels without the need for transshipment.

The governor further disclosed that limestone deposits in the state have been tested and confirmed suitable for industrial use, opening additional opportunities for cement production and other manufacturing activities.

He said the state government has already constituted a technical committee to work with the Dangote Group on legal, land acquisition, host community engagement and operational issues to facilitate the project's implementation.

The governor also confirmed the state's readiness to nominate a representative to the project's governing board as requested by the company.

Reaffirming his administration's commitment to the investment, Aiyedatiwa assured Dangote of full government support, pledging close collaboration with investors, regulatory agencies and host communities to ensure the successful execution and long-term sustainability of what could become one of Nigeria's largest industrial development projects.