Dangote Industries Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding worth more than $800m with Sinoma International Engineering Co. Ltd to expand the Dangote Cement Plant in Itori, Ogun State, increasing its production capacity from six million to 12 million metric tonnes annually.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the company said the agreement, signed by Dangote Group President, Aliko Dangote, and Sinoma Chairman, Lin Zhong, will enable Dangote Cement to meet rising domestic demand while significantly boosting its export capacity.

The expansion is also expected to reinforce Nigeria’s position as one of Africa’s leading cement producers and enhance the country’s presence in regional and global cement markets.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dangote described the project as a significant milestone in the company’s long-term growth strategy, underscoring its commitment to advancing Nigeria’s industrialisation and expanding the country’s manufacturing capacity.

Dangote thanked President Bola Tinubu for creating an enabling business environment, saying the decision to expand the Itori cement plant was driven by the government’s renewed emphasis on concrete road construction and the company’s ambition to deepen exports across Africa.

He said the expansion aligns with Dangote Cement’s Vision 2030 target of increasing production capacity to between 90 million and 100 million metric tonnes annually.

According to him, the project will not only increase production capacity but also strengthen the company’s export capabilities, boost foreign exchange earnings, create jobs, and support economic growth across the continent.

Dangote said the company’s longstanding partnership with Sinoma has played a pivotal role in delivering several world-class cement plants, adding that the new investment reflects strong confidence in Nigeria’s economic prospects and the future of Africa’s manufacturing industry.

Speaking after the signing ceremony, Aliko Dangote said, “This $800m investment represents another bold step in our commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s industrial base and reinforcing our leadership in Africa’s cement industry. The expansion of our Itori plant to 12 million from 6 million metric tonnes per annum will not only enhance our ability to meet growing domestic demand but also significantly increase our export capacity, thereby generating valuable foreign exchange for the country. This project reflects our unwavering confidence in the Nigerian economy and our determination to contribute meaningfully to economic growth, job creation, and regional trade across Africa.”

Sinoma Chairman Lin Zhong described the agreement as a major milestone in the longstanding partnership between the two companies, reaffirming the firm’s commitment to supporting Dangote Cement’s expansion and Nigeria’s industrial development.

“We are honoured to deepen our collaboration with Dangote Group through this landmark expansion project. Over the years, our partnership has produced some of the most modern and efficient cement manufacturing facilities in Africa, and this new investment further demonstrates our shared commitment to industrial excellence.

“The expansion of the Itori plant will not only increase production capacity but also enhance Nigeria’s position as a strategic manufacturing and export hub for the African continent. Sinoma will deploy its world-class engineering expertise, advanced technology, and global experience to ensure the successful delivery of this project to the highest standards.”