The Federal Government has officially taken possession of 130 hectares of land in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, for the construction of the Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port, signaling a major step in expanding Nigeria’s cargo handling infrastructure and improving trade facilitation.
The handover ceremony, held recently in Ijebu-Ode, brought together top government officials including the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Dr. Pius Akutah (MON), the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Oloruntola Olufemi, who represented the Minister, Hon. Adegboyega Oyetola (CON), and the Ogun State Commissioner for Transportation, Engr. Gbenga Dairo.
Speaking during the event, Dr. Akutah described the project as “a major leap toward realizing the Federal Government’s vision for efficient multimodal transport connectivity and enhanced port competitiveness.”
He added that the dry port will not only attract investments but also generate employment and stimulate economic growth across Ogun State and the South-West region.
Located along the Epe-Mojoda Expressway, the inland dry port is designed to serve as a key logistics hub for importers and exporters, decongesting the busy Lagos seaports while improving cargo movement to and from the hinterlands.
According to Mr. Olufemi, the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy remains committed to ensuring the project’s timely completion in partnership with private investors and host communities.
In his remarks, Engr. Gbenga Dairo, representing Governor Dapo Abiodun, reaffirmed Ogun State’s support, noting that the land allocation underscores the state’s commitment to strengthening trade logistics and transportation networks.
Once operational, the Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port is expected to significantly improve intermodal transport systems, reduce turnaround times for cargo, and enhance Nigeria’s overall port efficiency.
It will also position Ogun State as a central player in the nation’s maritime value chain, fostering industrial expansion and regional competitiveness.