Get Guardian on GooglePresident Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun have received a commendation on the proposed Gateway Deep Sea Port, described as an initiative that is capable of transforming Ogun State into a major international maritime, industrial, commercial and logistics destination.
The Managing Director/CEO of Herosplus International Limited, Olatunde Awonuga, who gave the commendation in a statement on Wednesday, said the project represents a historic economic opportunity for the state, and will also transform Ogun Waterside.
He said the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoU), between the state and DP World MEA FZE, a subsidiary of Dubai-based global port and logistics operator DP World, in Paris, France, on September 24, 2026, marks a significant milestone in the realisation of this ambitious project, adding that the presence of Tinubu at the signing ceremony further demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting strategic investments capable of transforming Nigeria’s economic landscape.
He said: “With an envisaged investment exceeding $7b and the potential to generate over 50,000 direct jobs, alongside substantial indirect employment opportunities, the project is undoubtedly one of the most ambitious maritime and industrial development initiatives in Nigeria’s emerging Blue Economy.
“We particularly commend President Tinubu for providing the necessary federal support and Governor Dapo Abiodun for his determination to attract transformative international investments to Ogun State. Their collaboration demonstrates the importance of purposeful leadership, strategic partnerships and continuity in economic development.”
Awonuga said the Gateway Deep Sea Port should be viewed beyond the construction of a seaport, as its integration with the proposed 10,000-hectare Ogun State Blue Marine Special Economic Zone offers an opportunity to establish a comprehensive industrial and commercial ecosystem that will attract international manufacturers, investors, shipping companies, logistics operators and export-oriented businesses.
He added that the experience of Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port and Free Zone demonstrates how strategic investments in maritime infrastructure, industrial facilities and international trade can transform a coastal community into a global commercial destination.
“Similarly, the Port of Rotterdam in the Netherlands illustrates the economic value of integrating deep-sea port facilities with industrial production, transportation networks, environmental sustainability and modern logistics infrastructure.
“We believe Ogun Waterside can achieve comparable economic significance if the project is implemented with the necessary institutional commitment, infrastructure and long-term planning.
“For the people of Ogun Waterside, this project represents an opportunity for generational economic transformation. Its benefits should include creation of employment opportunities; local business development; infrastructure development; education and skills acquisition; and community development, among others.
“For Ogun State, the project will strengthen its position as a major investment destination, attract foreign direct investment, and expand its revenue.”
While appreciating the governments and investment partners for this historic initiative, he appealed that the implementation framework prioritises the legitimate interests of the host communities.
“We particularly advocate a clearly defined Host Community Development Agreement, transparent employment and local-content policies, fair compensation for affected landowners, environmental protection, sustainable fisheries development and the establishment of a maritime and logistics skills acquisition institution in Ogun Waterside,” he said.
