By Atoyebi Nike
Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has initiated plans to build Nigeria’s biggest and deepest seaport at Olokola in Ogun State, marking a major expansion into maritime logistics.
In an interview with Bloomberg, Dangote said he submitted paperwork for the project in June. The port, located about 100km from his Lekki refinery, will support exports of fertilizer, petrochemicals, and LNG, while easing imports of equipment and raw materials.
“This move will encourage other entrepreneurs,” Dangote stated, highlighting the need for improved port infrastructure.
The planned Atlantic seaport would rival existing ports in Lagos, including the Lekki Deep Sea Port, and marks Dangote’s return to Olokola after earlier disputes halted development.
His group also plans to build pipelines from the Niger Delta to Lagos to expand LNG exports, aiming to outpace Nigeria LNG Ltd.
Additionally, Dangote will begin nationwide fuel distribution in August using 4,000 gas-powered trucks—a move some critics say could threaten competition.
With a net worth of $27.8 billion, Dangote continues to grow his industrial footprint across energy, manufacturing, and logistics in Africa.
