Ogun’s Kajola Dry Port to Ease Apapa Congestion, Aligns with FG’s Rail Initiative – Abiodun

By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.

The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has highlighted that the Kajola Inland Dry Port project was conceived to complement the Federal Government’s initiative of strengthening rail infrastructure, reducing congestion at the Apapa and Tin Can ports, and enhancing the seamless clearance of raw materials.

Governor Abiodun disclosed this while receiving the Outlined Business Case and Compliance Certificate for the development and operation of the dry port from a delegation of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) in Abeokuta.

He emphasized Ogun State’s strategic advantage, citing its proximity to Lagos—home to Nigeria’s busiest ports—and its status as the industrial hub of the country. The governor noted that many manufacturers prefer Ogun State due to its accessibility to gas pipelines and major transportation routes that connect to the North, East, and other regions.

“The overwhelming traffic at Apapa and Tin Can ports has rendered them inefficient, with containers sometimes delayed for 30 to 60 days, incurring demurrage and additional costs,” Abiodun stated.

“With the Inland Dry Port in place, containers can be transferred by rail from Lagos to Ogun, where all clearing processes will take place. This will not only ease the burden on Lagos ports but also facilitate cargo movement to states like Oyo, Osun, and Ondo.”

Abiodun assured full collaboration with the Shippers’ Council to ensure the project’s success and enhance trade efficiency.

NSC Commends Ogun’s Vision

The NSC Executive Secretary/CEO, Barr. Pius Akutah, applauded the governor’s commitment to improving Nigeria’s trade and logistics infrastructure. He described the Kajola Dry Port as a milestone project that reflects strong synergy between state and federal governments.

Akutah emphasized the importance of connectivity and cargo movement, particularly within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), which aims to streamline goods and services across Africa.

“Ogun State has become a nucleus of Nigeria’s industrial revolution under your leadership, with its transport infrastructure, cargo airport, and conducive business environment attracting major investments,” Akutah said.

“The provision of a 20-hectare plot of land for a vehicle transit area and the development of goods transport parks further underscore Ogun State’s commitment to industrial growth.”

Akutah reiterated that the Kajola Inland Dry Port would play a pivotal role in boosting Nigeria’s trade capacity and transforming logistics within the country and beyond.

The visit marked a significant collaboration between the Ogun State Government and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, positioning Ogun as a key player in Nigeria’s industrial and trade advancement.