The Federal Government has appealed to residents and stakeholders in Ogun and Ondo states to fully support the proposed Dangote Industrial City and Deep Seaport project, describing it as a game-changing investment capable of transforming local communities and boosting Nigeria’s economy. The project, which is expected to become Africa’s largest deep seaport, is projected to create thousands of jobs, attract investments, and open up new opportunities for businesses across the region.
Speaking during a three-day Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) site visit to communities in Ogun and Ondo states, representatives of the Federal Ministry of Environment emphasized the importance of collaboration between project developers and host communities. Mrs. Rofikat Adebukunola Odetoro, representing the Minister of Environment, commended Dangote Industries Limited for engaging local stakeholders and adhering to environmental regulations. She also stressed the need for women and children to be actively included in consultations, noting that they stand to benefit significantly from the project’s employment and social responsibility programmes.
Dangote Industries reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and community development throughout the project’s implementation. Managing Director of Infrastructure and Logistics, Capt. Jamil Abubakar, revealed that company president Aliko Dangote views the project as a strategic step toward strengthening Africa’s economic self-sufficiency. He noted that Araromi in Ondo State was selected as the location for one of the world’s largest deep seaports and assured residents that their concerns and interests would remain a priority throughout the development process.
The company also highlighted the importance of the ongoing Environmental and Social Impact Assessment. According to Dr. Adeyemi Adun, Group Lead for Environment and Sustainability at Dangote Industries, the study will establish baseline data on air quality, water resources, soil conditions, and socio-economic factors before construction begins. He assured community members that the project is designed to deliver positive environmental and economic outcomes, drawing parallels with the company’s impact in other host communities across Nigeria.
Support for the ambitious development continues to grow among government officials and traditional leaders. Representatives of the Ondo State Ministry of Environment welcomed the inclusive nature of the assessment process, while the Alara of Araromi Seaside Kingdom, Oba Adeoloye Olawole, expressed confidence that the investment would accelerate development in the area. The assessment tour concluded with stakeholders signing communiqués outlining their commitments to the project, as consultations and surveys continue for what is expected to become a landmark infrastructure project with far-reaching economic benefits for Nigeria and the wider African continent.
source: The Guardian