The Federal Government has officially taken possession of 130 hectares of land for the construction of the Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port, marking a major milestone in the drive to expand Nigeria’s cargo handling infrastructure and boost trade facilitation.
The official handover ceremony, held in Ijebu-Ode, saw the Executive Secretary of Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Dr. Akutah Pius, MON, join the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Oloruntola Olufemi, who represented the Minister, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON.
The project, located strategically along the Epe–Mojoda Expressway, is designed to serve as a critical logistics and distribution hub, easing the pressure on Lagos ports and facilitating cargo movement to and from the hinterland.
Dr. Akutah described the handover as “a major leap toward realizing the Federal Government’s vision for efficient, multimodal transport connectivity and enhanced port competitiveness.” He noted that the facility will attract investment, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in Ogun State and beyond.
According to the NSC boss, the inland port will provide shippers with easier access to import and export services closer to their industrial bases, reducing transportation costs and turnaround time.
Mr. Olufemi, representing the Minister, commended the Ogun State Government and local stakeholders for their cooperation, assuring that the Ministry remains committed to timely project delivery in partnership with private investors.
Representing Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, the State Commissioner for Transportation, Engr. Gbenga Dairo, confirmed that the land allocation was made to support the Federal Government’s efforts to enhance trade logistics and connectivity within the Ijebu-Ode economic cluster.
According to Dairo, the project will improve intermodal transportation systems across the state and further decongest the seaports in Lagos.
When completed, the Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port is expected to serve shippers across the South-West region, reinforcing Ogun State’s position as an emerging industrial and logistics hub in Nigeria’s maritime value chain.
