Dangote to Build Mega Free Trade Zone in Ondo, Construction Set for 2026

The President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has announced plans to develop what he described as the largest free trade zone in Nigeria at Olokola, Ondo State, in a move expected to transform the state’s industrial landscape and attract major investments.

Dangote disclosed this during a courtesy visit to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa in Akure on Monday, where he unveiled a renewed investment plan centred on industrial development, power generation, gas infrastructure and manufacturing.

Speaking on the proposed Olokola Free Trade Zone, Dangote said the project would be designed as a fully integrated industrial hub with dedicated power supply, water facilities and other critical infrastructure needed by investors.

“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 industrial zone is aimed at addressing Nigeria’s long-standing power challenges, which have forced many manufacturers to rely on self-generated electricity, thereby increasing production costs and limiting industrial growth.

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Dangote explained that the project would incorporate gas infrastructure through an east-west gas pipeline corridor to support industries operating within the zone and ensure uninterrupted energy supply.

The billionaire businessman noted that previous attempts to establish investments in Olokola were unsuccessful due to operational challenges, leading the company to concentrate its projects elsewhere. He, however, said improved conditions and renewed collaboration with the Ondo State Government had revived confidence in the project.

He disclosed that contractors would be mobilised to the site within the next three to four months, while full construction is expected to commence in the last quarter of 2026.

Dangote said the free trade zone would create thousands of jobs, stimulate industrial growth and position Ondo State as a major manufacturing and export hub in Nigeria.

Responding, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the project as a landmark investment that would accelerate the state’s industrialisation drive and unlock enormous economic opportunities for residents.

The governor assured the Dangote Group of the state’s full support, revealing that a technical committee had already been established to address legal, land, community and operational issues related to the project.

He expressed optimism that the Olokola Free Trade Zone would usher in a new era of industrial development and economic prosperity for Ondo State.