The Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has disclosed that the Federal Government has granted formal approval for the establishment of the Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port (IDP), a project expected to transform trade and logistics in South-West Nigeria.
Governor Abiodun, who confirmed the approval in a statement issued from Abeokuta, said the dry port would serve as a critical alternative to the already overstretched Lagos seaports, providing importers and exporters with direct access to cargo handling, customs clearance, and warehousing facilities within Ogun State.
A Strategic Milestone for Ogun
The governor described the development as a “game-changer” for Ogun, adding that the port will reinforce the state’s vision of becoming the country’s foremost industrial hub.
“The Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port is not just about easing the pressure on Apapa and Tin Can ports; it is about unlocking new economic opportunities for our people. It will strengthen Ogun’s position as the natural gateway to Nigeria’s economy,” Abiodun said.
He further noted that the facility will provide efficient trade routes for manufacturers, agro-allied businesses, and exporters in the state and beyond, while also reducing turnaround time for cargo movement.
Understanding Inland Dry Ports
Inland Dry Ports (IDPs) are designed to bring shipping and customs services closer to industries located far from coastal ports. They function as extensions of seaports, allowing containers to be cleared, stored, and distributed without requiring businesses to transport goods directly from Lagos.
Nigeria has, in recent years, embarked on several dry port projects as part of efforts to decongest Apapa. Examples include the Kano Dry Port in Dala, the Ibadan Dry Port at Erunmu, and the Funtua Inland Dry Port in Katsina State. When operational, these facilities are expected to deepen regional trade, reduce logistics costs, and attract investments.
The Ijebu-Ode facility will be the first of its kind in Ogun State, a region already hosting several industrial clusters and multinational companies due to its proximity to Lagos.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
Analysts say the project could become a catalyst for industrial expansion. By reducing transport bottlenecks, manufacturers and exporters will save costs while enjoying faster clearance processes.
The governor explained that the project is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, ranging from port operations and logistics to warehousing, security, and auxiliary services.
Federal and Private Sector Partnership
The dry port initiative is a public-private partnership supported by the Federal Government through the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), which serves as the project regulator. Ogun State will provide enabling infrastructure and incentives, while private investors are expected to drive construction and operations.
The Federal Ministry of Transportation, in line with the National Transport Policy, has reiterated its commitment to the project, stressing that the facility will not only benefit Ogun but also neighbouring states like Ondo, Ekiti, Osun, and even Lagos, where port congestion remains a persistent challenge.
Ogun’s Gateway Advantage
Governor Abiodun has consistently positioned Ogun as Nigeria’s “Gateway State.” In recent years, his administration has pursued large-scale infrastructure projects including the Gateway Agro-Cargo Airport, industrial parks, and road expansions designed to support heavy-duty transport.
The approval of the Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port, experts say, fits seamlessly into this broader economic roadmap. With Ogun sitting at the corridor between Lagos and the rest of the country, the dry port could become one of the busiest inland ports once operational.
Looking Ahead
While timelines for the commencement of construction and completion have not yet been announced, Governor Abiodun has assured residents that the state government will work closely with the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders to fast-track implementation.
Industry watchers note that the success of the project will depend on factors such as rail and road connectivity, efficient customs operations, and consistent government support.
For now, the approval represents a significant step forward for Ogun, and a clear indication of the Federal Government’s commitment to decentralising port operations and boosting Nigeria’s logistics capacity.
📌 Key Takeaway: The Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port is set to be a transformative project, bridging Ogun’s industrial ambition with Nigeria’s larger drive for efficient trade logistics. It signals new opportunities for investors, manufacturers, and communities across South-West Nigeria.
