Dapo Abiodun and Oyetola Break Ground for Gateway Inland Dry Port
Governor Dapo Abiodun and Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Gboyega Oyetola recently participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the Gateway Inland Dry Port (GIDP) and Dry Port City (DPC) in Itori, Ewekoro LGA, Ogun State.
Strategic and Socio-Economic Importance of the Gateway Inland Dry Port Project:
1. Gateway State: Ogun State’s geographical position serves as a crucial link to the northern and eastern regions of Nigeria and the broader West African sub-region.
2. International Agro-Cargo Airport: Construction began in 2021 to enhance the state’s logistics capabilities.
3. Agro-Processing Zone: In 2022, Governor Abiodun launched a $400 million Special Agro-Processing Zone (SPAZ) in partnership with the African Development Bank.
4. Industrial Growth: These agricultural initiatives have spurred a rise in medium and large-scale industries, particularly in agricultural production and processing.
5. Quality Assurance Centre: The African Export-Import Bank established the first African Quality Assurance Centre in Ogun State, highlighting the area’s industrial potential.
6. Transport Infrastructure: The Ogun State Strategic Multi-Modal Transport Master Plan emphasizes the need for robust logistics and transport services to enhance global trade. The GIDP will facilitate rapid economic growth, job creation, and prosperity.
7. Location and Strategic Positioning:
The GIDP will be part of the new Dry Port City, featuring mixed-use developments including residential, logistics, and commercial spaces.
Its location will help alleviate congestion at the Apapa and Tin Can ports, significantly reducing cargo handling and storage wait times.
8. Accessibility: The GIDP is strategically situated near the Lagos-Ibadan Standard Gauge Railway and the proposed East-West Railway Corridor, with access to major highways, enhancing its logistical advantages.
9. Public-Private Partnership: The project will follow a Public-Private Partnership model for its delivery, operations, maintenance, and management.
10. Design Features: Phase 1 of the GIDP will cover 499 hectares, including essential facilities such as a railway siding, container freight station, warehouses, truck parking, and green areas.
Conclusion
The GIDP and DPC are vital to Ogun State’s ongoing industrial expansion and urban development, paving the way for
improved logistics and trade in the region.
