I have just taken another step in building our industrial future. I have submitted an application for the development of a large-scale seaport in Olokola, in Ogun State, southwest Nigeria. This site, which I envisioned more than ten years ago to house our refinery and fertilizer complex, is now once again at the heart of our strategy.

A port to support our energy ambition. Our ambition is clear: to build Nigeria's largest deep-sea seaport to facilitate the export of our industrial and energy products. This port will become an anchor for our liquefied natural gas (LNG), fertilizers, and fuels, while streamlining the supply chain that supports our growth.

I am not leading this project with the aim of creating a monopoly. I hope it will inspire and pave the way for other African entrepreneurs.  We need infrastructure, and it is our responsibility to create it when the state alone cannot provide it.

The bet on gas

We are building a gas pipeline that will connect the Niger Delta to Olokola. This region is abundant in gas, a resource we already use for our fertilizer plant and ammonia production. This pipeline could become a truly beneficial energy backbone for the country, dependent on resources from the South to international markets.

Yes, I want us to occupy our place in the LNG market, currently dominated by Nigeria LNG Ltd. But I am convinced that we can offer a robust and competitive alternative, capable of creating even more value for Nigeria.

Integrating the entire chain: from the refinery to the last mile

Starting in August 2025, we will launch a fleet of 4,000 tanker trucks to directly distribute our fuels across the country. This is not an attempt at hegemony, but a necessity.  We have invested in Africa's largest refinery; it makes sense to also master logistics to ensure efficient and stable supply.

I understand the criticism, but I remain true to my philosophy: to create jobs, build infrastructure, and stimulate an entire industrial ecosystem. Nigeria deserves a strong and integrated model capable of competing with the largest economies.

A Nigeria Looking to the Future

My fortune is just one tool in the service of a greater ambition: to build an industrialized, competitive, and sovereign Nigeria. After cement, sugar, fertilizers, and the refinery, this port of Olokola is the missing piece of a puzzle we have been assembling for years.

This project will transform our coastline into a logistics and energy hub, reduce our dependence on congested ports, and attract new investors. It is a long-term vision, a vision for Africa, driven by Africans.

— Aliko Dangote