Dangote plans to construct the largest free‑trade zone in Olokola, Ondo.

—Ondo set for industrial revolution — Aiyedatiwa

By Dayo Johnson Akure

Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, announced plans to build the largest industrial and free trade zone in Nigeria at Olokola, Ondo State, with construction slated to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026.

He made the announcement during a courtesy visit to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in Akure, describing the project as a “power‑driven investment hub” intended to attract manufacturers and remove infrastructure bottlenecks.

“The proposed Olokola project will go beyond a conventional free trade zone. It will be fully equipped with power, water and logistics infrastructure so investors can just come and plug in,” Dangote said.

“We will generate power, provide infrastructure and remove the bottlenecks around doing business.”

He noted that the initiative directly addresses Nigeria’s 30‑year power deficit, which he described as the country’s biggest industrial constraint.

“Most manufacturers currently rely on self‑generated electricity,” he added. “The new model will integrate dedicated energy supply into the zone, plus gas infrastructure through an east‑west gas corridor to support energy‑intensive industries.”

Dangote recalled that the group had previously attempted investments in Olokola but faced operational challenges, leading to a focus on Lagos. He said the renewed engagement reflects improved conditions and stronger collaboration with the Ondo Government.

“Contractors are expected to mobilise in 3‑4 months, with full construction starting Q4.”

The project will involve government participation, and Dangote requested that a state representative sit on the zone’s board.

He said the free trade zone will drive large‑scale job creation and industrial expansion across Ondo and neighbouring states, citing Lagos projects that delivered significant employment and export revenue.

Governor Aiyedatiwa welcomed the move as a “major milestone” in Ondo’s industrialisation agenda.

He said the project aligns with efforts to position the state as a South‑West industrial destination, leveraging its location on the Lagos‑Calabar Coastal Highway and its deep‑seaport licence for large vessels.

He also noted that limestone deposits in Ondo have been tested and found suitable for industrial use, signalling potential for cement expansion.

A technical committee has been set up to handle legal, land, community and operational frameworks, and the state will nominate a board representative.

The committee is chaired by Chief Bode Sunmonu, with ONDIPA CEO Emmanuel Omomowo as Secretary. Members include Barr. Yinka Orokoto, Sola Adebisi, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Finance Idowu Ojo, and Engr. Femi Akarakiri.

They will review legal, administrative and community issues under defined terms of reference.

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