Aliko Dangote, has announced plans to establish what is expected to become Nigeria’s largest industrial zone in Ondo State, with construction scheduled to begin in the last quarter of 2026.
Dangote made the disclosure on Monday during a courtesy visit to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in Akure, stating that the proposed industrial hub will be located in Olokola and is designed to accelerate manufacturing, create jobs, and attract both domestic and foreign investors.
He explained that the project would go beyond a conventional free trade zone, featuring fully integrated infrastructure such as dedicated power generation, water supply systems, logistics networks, and industrial facilities to support large-scale production.
“We want to create the biggest free trade zone where investors can come and plug in. We will generate power, provide infrastructure and remove bottlenecks to doing business,” he said.
According to him, the development will also include investments in cement production, gas infrastructure, and manufacturing, forming part of a broader strategy to expand the Dangote Group’s industrial footprint across Nigeria.
Dangote noted that unreliable electricity remains a major obstacle to industrial growth in the country, adding that many manufacturers are forced to depend on self-generated power. He said the planned industrial zone would address this challenge through an integrated energy system supported by a proposed east–west gas corridor.
He further disclosed that preparatory work is already underway, with contractors expected to mobilise to the site in the coming months, ahead of the 2026 construction timeline.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa described the project as a significant boost to Ondo State’s industrial ambitions, saying it aligns with efforts to position the state as a major manufacturing hub in Nigeria’s South-West region.
He highlighted Ondo’s strategic advantages, including its location along the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway corridor, a licensed deep seaport, and confirmed limestone deposits suitable for industrial development.
The governor also revealed that a technical committee has been constituted to collaborate with the Dangote Group on legal, land, and operational frameworks, while assuring full government support for the successful execution of the project.
