Itori plant drives Dangote Cement’s export expansion

Dangote Cement's Itori plant in Ogun State, Ogun State, is 100% export-oriented and will serve as the company's hub for export strategy to neighboring markets and its sister companies across Africa, according to the Group Managing Director/CEO, Mr Arvind Pathak. Pathak stated that the first phase of the Itori plant would deliver six million tonnes of capacity, with output expected to significantly increase in the coming year.

As of now, the plant is producing three million tonnes. Pathak mentioned that production from Itori would mainly consist of clinker, which would be utilized by the company's sister companies in Cameroon, Senegal, and other markets. Approximately 60% of clinker would be sourced internally, with the remaining 40% being imported. Upon demand, clinker would be transported by road from Itori to Apapa, where the company has adequate infrastructure in place.

This approach eliminates the need for additional capital expenditure (CAPEX) for logistics. Itori will also serve as a supplier of clinker to neighboring countries such as Benin and Togo, with demand from these markets anticipated to consume the entire capacity of the first phase. Pathak anticipates that the next phase of Itori will require additional clinker and cement production to meet the export scheme's needs.

The plant's strategic location, situated just 18 to 20 kilometers from the main limestone basin, enables cost-efficient operations and quick execution. The Itori export strategy is part of Dangote Cement's broader plan to achieve 80 million tonnes of capacity, relying on brownfield expansions for lower capital expenditure and faster returns on investment.