The President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has reaffirmed plans to establish a major industrial and free trade zone in Olokola, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.

He described the proposed development as a power-driven investment hub aimed at attracting manufacturers and removing the infrastructure challenges that often discourage industrial investors.

Dangote made this known on Monday during a visit to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa at the Government House in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

He explained that the renewed investment plan would cover power generation, cement production, gas infrastructure, and wider industrial manufacturing activities.

According to him, the Olokola project is designed to go beyond a typical free trade zone by providing dedicated infrastructure such as electricity, water, and logistics systems to enable investors to operate with minimal delays.

“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.

Dangote added that the project is also intended to address Nigeria’s long-standing power challenges, which he described as a major obstacle to industrial growth over the past three decades.

He noted that many manufacturers currently depend on self-generated electricity due to unreliable public power supply, a situation the proposed zone aims to correct through integrated energy solutions.

He also revealed plans to incorporate gas infrastructure through an east–west gas corridor to support energy-intensive industries within the zone.

In response, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa welcomed the initiative, describing it as a significant step toward advancing Ondo State’s industrial development agenda.

He said the project aligns with the state’s ambition to become a leading industrial hub in the South-West, citing its strategic location along the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway corridor.

The governor also highlighted Ondo State’s deep seaport licence as a major logistics advantage, noting its capacity to handle large vessels without transshipment.

He added that limestone deposits in the state have been confirmed suitable for industrial use, creating opportunities for expanded cement production.

Aiyedatiwa said a technical committee has been set up to engage with the Dangote Group on legal, land, community, and operational matters, while the state is also prepared to nominate a representative to the project board.

He assured full government support for the initiative, emphasizing collaboration with investors and host communities to ensure smooth execution and long-term success.