Dangote, Chinese Engineering Firm Partner on $800m Ogun Cement Expansion Project

 Dangote, Chinese Engineering Firm Partner on $800m Ogun Cement Expansion Project

 Dangote Industries Limited and Sinoma International Engineering Co., Ltd. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) worth more than $800 million to expand the Dangote Cement Plant in Itori, Ogun State, increasing its production capacity from six million to 12 million metric tons per annum (MTPA) and strengthening Nigeria's position as a major cement export hub in Africa.

The agreement was signed by the President and Chief Executive of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, and the Chairman of Sinoma International Engineering Co., Ltd., Lin Zhong, reaffirming the long-standing strategic partnership between both organisations and their commitment to advancing industrial development across Africa.

The expansion project is expected to significantly boost the Itori plant's production capacity, enabling Dangote Cement to meet growing domestic demand while expanding exports to regional and international markets. The investment is also projected to strengthen Nigeria's standing as one of Africa's leading cement-producing nations.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dangote described the project as a major milestone in the company's long-term growth strategy and its commitment to Nigeria's industrialisation agenda.

He commended President Bola Tinubu for creating an enabling environment for businesses, noting that the decision to expand the Itori cement plant was influenced by the Federal Government's renewed emphasis on using concrete for road construction, as well as the company's strategy to increase exports to African countries with growing cement demand.

According to him, the expansion aligns with Dangote Cement's Vision 2030 target of producing between 90 million and 100 million metric tons of cement annually across its operations.

Dangote said the investment would not only increase production capacity but also boost export volumes, generate foreign exchange earnings, create employment opportunities, and contribute to economic growth across Nigeria and the African continent.

He added that the partnership with Sinoma has been instrumental in delivering several world-class cement manufacturing facilities and demonstrates the company's confidence in Nigeria's economic prospects.

"This $800 million investment represents another bold step in our commitment to strengthening Nigeria's industrial base and reinforcing our leadership in Africa's cement industry. The expansion of our Itori plant from six million to 12 million metric tons per annum will not only enhance our ability to meet growing domestic demand but also significantly increase our export capacity, thereby generating valuable foreign exchange for the country. This project reflects our unwavering confidence in the Nigerian economy and our determination to contribute meaningfully to economic growth, job creation, and regional trade across Africa," Dangote said.

Also speaking, Sinoma Chairman Lin Zhong described the agreement as another significant milestone in the relationship between both companies.

"We are honoured to deepen our collaboration with Dangote Group through this landmark expansion project. Over the years, our partnership has produced some of the most modern and efficient cement manufacturing facilities in Africa, and this new investment further demonstrates our shared commitment to industrial excellence," he said.

According to Zhong, the expansion of the Itori plant will strengthen Nigeria's position as a strategic manufacturing and export hub for Africa, adding that Sinoma will deploy its world-class engineering expertise, advanced technology, and global experience to deliver the project to the highest international standards.

He further noted that the project reflects growing international confidence in Nigeria's industrial sector and highlights the importance of strategic partnerships in driving economic growth, infrastructure development, and sustainable industrialisation across the continent.

The Itori plant expansion forms part of Dangote Cement's broader strategy to consolidate its leadership in Africa's cement industry through sustained investments in production capacity, operational efficiency, and export-driven growth.

Upon completion, the expanded facility is expected to serve as a major production and export hub, supplying cement to both domestic and international markets while supporting Nigeria's ambition to become a leading industrial and manufacturing powerhouse.