Billionaire industrialist Aliko Dangote has accused the former governor of Ogun State, Ibikunle Amosun, of twice demolishing his cement factory in Itori, forcing his company to abandon the investment. However, he has now pledged to rebuild the facility, citing renewed confidence in the state’s business environment under Governor Dapo Abiodun.
Speaking on Monday during a courtesy visit to Abiodun at the Government House in Abeokuta, Dangote recounted how his company’s attempts to establish operations in Itori were thwarted during Amosun’s tenure.
“Our factory at Itori was pulled down twice. The second time, they didn’t just demolish the factory but also the fence, so we left,” he said.
However, Dangote credited Abiodun’s investor-friendly policies for his decision to return.
“Because of His Excellency, our governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, we are back. When you visit the factory, you will be surprised at what we have done,” he added.
Plans for Expansion and Ogun’s Cement Dominance
Dangote announced that his company has now constructed two new production lines at Itori, adding 6.0 million metric tonnes per annum (MTPA) to its existing 12 million MTPA cement plant in Ibeshe. This move, he said, will cement Ogun State’s position as Africa’s largest cement-producing hub.
Beyond cement, Dangote also revealed plans to revive the Olokola Free Trade Zone (OKFTZ) and develop Nigeria’s largest port in collaboration with the state government.
He highlighted that Nigeria is now self-sufficient in cement and fertilizer production, with surplus products being exported to generate foreign exchange.
Governor Abiodun Applauds Dangote’s Commitment
Governor Abiodun welcomed Dangote’s renewed investment in Ogun, praising his contributions to Nigeria’s economy and job creation.
“I want to thank you for all that you have done—the number of people you have employed and the impact you continue to make, not just in this state but across Nigeria,” Abiodun said.
“Not only have you chosen to complete Itori, but you have also chosen to develop the biggest port in Nigeria. For this, I thank you.”
Amosun’s Camp Dismisses Allegations
However, the media office of former governor Amosun, through spokesperson Lanre Akinwale, dismissed Dangote’s claims.
Akinwale insisted that the billionaire should provide evidence of obtaining government approvals before constructing the allegedly demolished factory.
“No individual or business entity is above the law. We appeal to Alhaji Dangote to present the necessary approvals for the structures he claims were demolished,” the statement read.
Akinwale also defended Amosun’s pro-business track record, citing his administration’s success in attracting over 500 companies and securing 75% of Nigeria’s foreign direct investment (FDI) in the industrial sector.
“During Amosun’s tenure, Ogun was recognized as Nigeria’s ‘Industrial Capital.’ Even Dangote himself once praised the administration for facilitating the establishment of his Ibese cement factory, after years of frustration under previous governments.”
Dismissing any notion that Amosun’s administration was hostile to business, Akinwale pointed to the World Bank’s ranking of Ogun State among the top three in Nigeria for ease of doing business.
The disagreement has once again ignited discussions about Ogun’s investment climate and the intersection of politics and business in the state.
