Billionaire industrialist Aliko Dangote has taken a major step toward constructing Nigeria’s largest seaport by submitting formal proposals to the federal government. The $2.5 billion deep-sea port project, slated for construction in Ogun State’s coastal region, would significantly expand Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure and ease congestion at existing ports.
Documents obtained by Podium News reveal the proposed port will feature:
- 16 meter-deep berths capable of handling mega-container ships
- Specialized terminals for containers, bulk cargo and liquid commodities
- Annual capacity exceeding 6 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units)
- Direct rail connection to the national network
Ogun State officials confirmed receiving the proposal, with Governor Dapo Abiodun calling it “transformational for our industrial ambitions.” The project would complement Dangote’s nearby $19 billion refinery and petrochemical complex in Lekki, creating an integrated industrial corridor along the Ogun-Lagos axis.
Maritime experts say the new port could reduce Nigeria’s reliance on neighboring countries’ ports and cut shipping costs by up to 40%. However, environmental groups have raised concerns about potential ecological impacts on coastal communities.
The federal government has 90 days to review the environmental impact assessment and construction plans before granting final approval. If approved, construction could begin by Q1 2026, creating an estimated 100,000 jobs during the building phase.
