ITORI, Nigeria — Nigerian billionaire and industrialist Aliko Dangote has disclosed that his cement factory project in Itori, Ogun State, was demolished twice during the tenure of former Governor Ibikunle Amosun.
The revelation came as Dangote discussed the progress of the $585 million project, which is now nearing completion and expected to commence operations next year.
Speaking about the challenges faced during the initial phases of the project, Dangote revealed that the factory’s construction was halted twice due to demolitions ordered by the Amosun administration.
“The factory we are visiting now in Itori was because of His Excellency that we came back. That factory was demolished twice. We started building, then Amosun demolished it,” Dangote said.
He added that the second demolition included the destruction of the factory’s perimeter fencing, prompting his company to abandon the project.
“The second time we restarted again, he demolished not only the factory but also the fencing, so we left,” Dangote explained.
However, the intervention of the current governor, Dapo Abiodun, persuaded Dangote to return to Ogun State and recommence the project.
“But right now, we are coming back because of His Excellency, my brother, Prince Dapo Abiodun. When we go there, you will be very surprised,” Dangote stated.
The new cement plant, located in Itori, Ewekoro Local Government Area, is set to feature two clinker production lines, each with a capacity of 6,000 tonnes per day. The facility will cover the entire cement manufacturing process, from limestone crushing to packaging and shipping.
The project is expected to significantly boost local cement production, create jobs, and contribute to the economic development of Ogun State.
Dangote’s decision to revive the project under Governor Abiodun’s administration highlights the importance of a conducive business environment for attracting and retaining investments.
The Itori cement plant is part of Dangote’s broader strategy to expand his cement production capacity across Africa.
The Dangote Group, already one of the largest cement producers on the continent, continues to invest heavily in infrastructure and industrial projects to meet growing demand.
Governor Abiodun’s role in reviving the project has been widely praised, with many stakeholders commending his administration’s efforts to foster a business-friendly climate in Ogun State.
The successful completion of the Itori plant is expected to further solidify the state’s reputation as a hub for industrial and economic activities.
As the project nears completion, anticipation is building among local communities and industry stakeholders. The plant’s operations are expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, providing a significant boost to the local economy.
Dangote’s revelation about the challenges faced during the Amosun administration underscores the impact of government policies on private sector investments.
The successful revival of the Itori project under Governor Abiodun’s leadership serves as a testament to the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in driving economic growth.
The Itori cement plant is poised to become a landmark project in Ogun State, symbolising resilience, innovation, and the transformative power of strategic investments.
As operations commence next year, the facility is expected to play a pivotal role in meeting Nigeria’s cement demand and supporting infrastructure development across the country.
