…Aiyedatiwa says state set for industrial revolution
By Duchess Ifeoluwa
President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has unveiled plans to establish what is projected to become Nigeria’s largest industrial and free trade zone in Ondo State, with construction expected to commence in the last quarter of 2026.
Dangote disclosed this on Monday during a courtesy visit to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa at the Governor’s Office in Akure, where he outlined an ambitious investment framework covering power generation, gas infrastructure, cement production and industrial manufacturing.
The proposed project, to be located at Olokola in the state’s coastal axis, is expected to transform Ondo into a major industrial hub and create thousands of jobs while attracting local and foreign investors.
According to Dangote, the Olokola Industrial and Free Trade Zone will differ from conventional industrial estates by providing investors with all critical infrastructure needed for seamless operations.
He explained that the zone would be equipped with dedicated power generation facilities, water supply systems and logistics infrastructure, eliminating many of the challenges businesses face in Nigeria.
“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,” Dangote said.
The billionaire industrialist noted that inadequate electricity supply remains one of the greatest obstacles to industrial growth in Nigeria, adding that most manufacturers currently depend on self-generated power at enormous costs.
He said the proposed investment would incorporate an integrated energy solution to ensure uninterrupted operations for industries within the zone.
Dangote further revealed plans to develop gas infrastructure through an east-west gas corridor that would support energy-intensive industries and strengthen industrial productivity.
He recalled that previous efforts by the Dangote Group to establish investments in the Olokola area were hindered by operational challenges, forcing the conglomerate to redirect some of its projects to Lagos State.
However, he expressed confidence that improved conditions and stronger collaboration with the Ondo State Government had created a favourable environment for the revival of the project.
Dangote disclosed that contractors are expected to move to the project site within the next three to four months, while full-scale construction activities are scheduled to begin in the final quarter of the year.
He added that the project would operate under a partnership framework involving the state government and requested the nomination of a state representative to serve on the board of the industrial zone.
The business magnate said the development would stimulate industrial expansion across Ondo State and neighbouring regions, creating employment opportunities and boosting economic activities.
He pointed to the success of similar investments undertaken by the Dangote Group in Lagos, noting that such projects have generated substantial employment and export earnings.
Responding, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the investment as a landmark development capable of accelerating Ondo State’s industrialisation drive and economic transformation.
The governor said the project aligns with his administration’s vision of positioning Ondo as a leading investment destination in the South-West region.
He highlighted the state’s strategic location along the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway corridor, describing it as a major advantage for industrial and commercial activities.
Aiyedatiwa also drew attention to Ondo State’s deep seaport licence, which he said offers significant logistical benefits and the capacity to accommodate large vessels without transshipment challenges.
The governor further revealed that extensive limestone deposits in the state had undergone testing and were found suitable for industrial use, opening additional opportunities for cement production and other manufacturing activities.
He disclosed that the state government had already established a technical committee to engage with the Dangote Group on issues relating to land acquisition, legal frameworks, host community relations and project implementation.
According to him, the government is fully prepared to nominate a representative to the project’s board and provide all necessary support to ensure the success of the investment.
Aiyedatiwa assured the Dangote Group of the state’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment and working closely with host communities to guarantee smooth implementation and long-term sustainability.
“This is a major milestone in our industrialisation agenda. Ondo State is ready for an industrial revolution, and we are committed to supporting investors who share our vision for economic growth, job creation and sustainable development,” the governor said.
The meeting was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Commissioner for Finance, Mrs Omowunmi Isaac; Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. Johnson Alabi; Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperative Services, Pastor Bola Ademuwagun; Commissioner for Environment, Dr Tob Loko; Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, Comrade Gani Mohammed; and the Chief Executive Officer of the Ondo State Investment Promotion Agency (ONDIPA), Barrister Emmanuel Omomowo.
