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2024 Host Community Day: Ogun govt commends Dangote Cement Ibese over CSR projects

Post author By Victor Ogunyinka
Post date December 13, 2024
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Ibese Plant plans big for 2025

It was a moment of excitement for the 17 host communities to Dangote Cement, Ibese Plant in Ogun State as the management reeled out 25 multi-million Naira Social Investment projects successfully executed for the people of the communities in the outgoing 2024 year, with an assurance of bigger investment projects in 2025.

This is just as the Ogun State Government lauded the Ibese Cement Plant for partnering the state government on the development of the host communities in the state through provision of infrastructure and empowerment programmes.

Speaking during the 3^rd edition of the Ibese Host Community Day, Ibese Plant Director, Mr. Roy Uttam disclosed that 160 indigent students have benefitted from the Company’s scholarship programme while others including women, youths and farmers benefitted from various empowerments programmes to make them more productive and self employed.

Amidst intermittent applause and interjections by the Ipokia cultural troupe the Dangote Cement boss assured that the company would not rest on its oars in contributing to the development of the communities within which it operates in reciprocation for the co-operation received from the people.

Roy said the Host Community Day themed “Celebrating Resilience through Effective Partnership”, was in recognition of the communities’ invaluable contributions to Dangote Cement success story in the past years and urged them to continue in that direction noting that the communities would continue to witness development just as the cement company continue to succeed.

Said he: “In consonance with the four thematic focus areas of our Social Investment Strategy, which are Infrastructure, Education, Health and Empowerment; we embarked on twenty- five (25) social investment projects, including those carried over from the previous year. We have so far made significant progress, despite the prevailing inflation, which caused us to renegotiate all of the contracts to ensure that we deliver maximum value to our communities.

“Today, a symbolic presentation of Scholarship award to 120 outstanding and indigent students will be made alongside the distribution of fifty-five (55) chest freezers to support vulnerable women in starting or expanding their businesses. These efforts complement a range of initiatives, including a welfare program for fifty (50) elderly individuals, the provision of Fertilizers, Pesticides, and Knapsack sprayers to 60 farmers, and other empowerment programs so far carried out in the course of year.

“Earlier this year, thirty (30) youths who completed training in shoe and leather bag making were equipped with multimillion-naira starter packs. Another group of thirty (30) youths from the host communities are currently undergoing training in POP, screeding, and painting. As always, each trainee will receive tools to support their immediate startup,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, the Ogun State Commissioner, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, who was represented by Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olu Ola Aikulola, commended the Dangote Cement for its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility for growth and development across their host communities.

“You can see the different programmes they have done for the communities, skill acquisition, programme empowerment for youths and women. My take is that things should be done on need basis and I see that happening here. Last year Dangote Cement gave 50 chest freezers, and the community said they needed more and this year 55 were given to select women.

“We advocate for maximum impact; I charge the traditional rulers to follow this up and ensure that these grants and items distributed are well used for the growth of the economy.”

Giving the Cement Plant’s Social Investments scorecard, the Head of Social Performance, Dangote Cement, Ibese, Mr Ademola Ojolowo, revealed that a total of 25 social investment projects planned for 2024 with seven projects carried over from 2023 were successfully executed.

“The scholarship fund was increased by 50 per cent for tertiary institution students and by 80 per cent for secondary school students. Some of the other completed projects include; Construction of solar powered industrial borehole with overheads tank in Ibese, and Abule Maria; Construction of health centre with solar powered borehole in Imasayi; Renovation of health centre with solar powered borehole in Aga Olowo; Purchase and installation of 500KVA, 33/0.415KV transformer at Abule Oke; Support for 60 farmers (provision of fertilisers, pesticides and knapsack sprayers) from all the host communities.

“Others are empowerment for women (provision of chest freezers to 55 vulnerable women across the host communities); skill acquisition and empowerment programme for 30 youths on leather bag and shoe making; elders’ empowerment (60 senior citizens across the host communities); annual scholarship award (120 indigent students across the host communities) among others.

Speaking on behalf of other host communities’ traditional rulers, the Aboro of Iboro, Oba Daniel Abayomi Salako said the communities were happy with Dangote Cement for the efforts made to provide the people with projects and programmes that make life more meaningful.

While urging the company to do more in the coming year, he equally enjoined his people to make the best use of the infrastructures and empowerments by taking ownership and at the same time maintain the current peaceful atmosphere in the communities.

The Community Day celebration witnessed various traditional games competitions with winners rewarded with various gifts and tasting of traditional cuisines by the communities’ women group.

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NECA: Dangote Cement wins sectoral investment awards

Post author By Victor Ogunyinka
Post date November 26, 2024
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In a blitz of honour, the Pan-Africa Conglomerate, Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), and its subsidiaries Dangote Cement Plc and Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals stole the show at the weekend in Lagos when they carted away excellence awards bestowed by the private sector employers’ body, Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA) during its 2024 annual night of recognitions.

Dangote Group was recognised under the Visible Impact Award for Resilience & Entrepreneurship; Dangote Cement won the Sectoral Excellence Award in the Chemical and Non-Metallic Products category, while the 650,000bpd capacity world’s largest single train refinery, Dangote Refinery won the Groundbreaking Investment award.

Basking in the euphoria of the recognitions, Dangote Industries Limited’s Vice-President, Oil and Gas, Mr. Devakumar Edwin, who was on ground to receive the awards described them as reflecting the values of Dangote Group and its subsidiaries as top employers of labour showing resilience in the face of tough business operating environment.

He said the award would only spur the management of Dangote to continue in the trajectory of the fine best global best practices in business with more investments in the task of rejuvenating the nation’s economy.

In the same vein, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investments, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole and her counterpart in Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN) were recipients of the “Visible Impact in Public Service Award.”

This year’s awards, dubbed “Defying the odds”, NECA said, is geared towards promoting and encouraging best practices in Corporate Performance, People Management and Industrial Relations practices amongst employers in Nigeria.

This, it explained, is in a bid to celebrate outstanding contributions of enterprise to national development, noting that the award provided a platform for celebrating the resilience, doggedness and outstanding performance of employers in Nigeria.

In his welcome address, President of NECA, Dr. Ifeanyi Eric Okoye, noted that the award ceremony was to celebrate the excellence, resilience, innovation and unwavering commitment demonstrated by businesses across the various sectors of the Nigerian economy in 2024.

He said the Awards’ theme, “Defying the Odds,” reflected the indomitable spirit of the Nigerian enterprises that had consistently risen to the challenges posed by the dynamic and demanding local and global economic landscape.

Said he, “This annual ceremony is a testament to remarkable progress made by organisations that share our vision of a thriving private sector as the bedrock of national development. Over the years, the NECA’s Excellence Award has become a hallmark of prestige highlighting organisations that exemplify best practices in corporate governance, industrial relations and environmental sustainability.

“Our honours tonight do not only serve as a beacon of hope, and a reminder that in the face of adversities excellence is achievable, it is also an opportunity to increase visibility by highlighting their achievements and innovations to a wider audience.

“As we celebrate tonight, let us not only celebrate the achievements of the award recipients; let also celebrate all businesses here present and those that have left in the past few years and recommit ourselves to fostering innovation, inclusivity and resilience in all that we do. Together we can build a future where Nigerian enterprises thrive as global leaders.”

Also speaking, the Director General of NECA, Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, explained that the awards were a statement that, irrespective of the challenges the private sector employers have been facing “since January till now, there is time for all of us to sit down and just breathe and celebrate the resilience, doggedness, innovations your businesses were able to bring on-board and their contributions to national development.”

Oyerinde stated further: “So, we are gathered this evening to celebrate your businesses, contribution and support to NECA. We have broken away from the traditional issues of labour and employment that you know us with and are now dealing with all fundamental issues that affect your businesses either now or in the future like Environmental, Social and Governance in sustainability issues.

“We are also deepening our collaboration with CIPE moving into the realms of ethics with emphasis on doing business correctly. We are also deepening our engagements with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in the context of responsible business conduct for our members to operate responsibly within the context of the law.

“This strengthens our hands to advocate against unfavourable business regulations that see businesses as cash cows rather than agents of national development.”

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by Head of Service, Lagos State, Mr. Shuaheeb Agoro, commended NECA for its remarkable legacy of championing enterprise, competitiveness, responsible business practices and industrial harmony describing the award as another remarkable way of motivating employers in the private sector.

Sanwo-Olu said, “This year’s theme could not to be more apt as it speaks to the determination that Nigerian employers have continued to demonstrate in overcoming challenges to sustain businesses, create jobs and drive national development. This resilience is a reflection of enduring entrepreneurial spirit that defines our great nation.”

The governor pointed out that the award inspires the culture of best practices in corporate governance, industrial relations, environmental sustainability and responsible business conduct.”

Tags Dangote Cement NECA Awards

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CSR: Dangote Cement donates Educational Support Projects to Lagos schools

Post author By Victor Ogunyinka
Post date November 22, 2024
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Dangote Cement Plc, a leading cement manufacturer, has donated multi-million Naira educational support projects to secondary schools in Lagos as part of its social investment initiatives aimed at complementing the government’s efforts in providing quality and sustainable education in the state.

The company’s management explained that the projects, which were commissioned and handed over to various schools in the Ikoyi-Obalende Local Council Development Area, align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on education. These goals focus on ensuring inclusive, equitable, and quality education, as well as promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

The projects, warmly received by both teachers and students, include 100 dual school desks for Ilado Community Junior High School and Wahab Folawiyo Senior High School, alongside a refurbished and fully equipped chemistry laboratory at Government Senior Secondary School, Ikoyi. Also donated were reading tables, chairs, and bookshelves for the library at Government Junior Secondary School, Ikoyi.

A celebration also took place at Falomo Junior High School and Ireti Senior Grammar School, both in Ikoyi, where the company donated 20 brand-new desktop computers to the ICT departments of the schools.

Speaking at the event at Government Junior College, Ikoyi, the Group Managing Director of Dangote Cement Plc, Mr. Arvind Pathak, explained that social investment is a key part of Dangote Cement’s operations. He said the company is dedicated to giving back to society and supporting the sustainable development of local communities, especially in areas where it operates.

Mr. Pathak’s address was delivered by Mr. Wakeel Olayiwola, the Head of Social Performance at Dangote Cement Plc.

He said, “education holds a pivotal role in the development and empowerment of the youths in the country. As a cornerstone for societal advancement, it serves as a critical tool for personal growth, economic development, and national progress. An educated youth population not only fosters individual success but also contributes significantly to the nation’s overall wellbeing.

“At Dangote Cement, we believe that providing quality education to our youth is vital and should not be left solely as the government’s responsibility. Thus, we aim to partner with the government to enhance educational development in this regard.

“The projects we are handing over today are part of our 2024 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme for selected schools within the neighbourhood of Dangote Cement Plc’s Head Office in Ikoyi, Lagos. These projects were selected based on need assessments in collaboration with the schools.”

As a responsible corporate entity, Mr. Pathak noted that Dangote Cement’s commitment to societal wellbeing, with investments in four key areas: Education, Healthcare, Infrastructure, and Economic Empowerment programmes.

“This year, our plants in Ibese, Ogun State; Obajana, Kogi State; Gboko, Benue State; Okpella, Edo State; and our Pan-African operations have launched several social investment projects. These efforts contribute to the quality of life in our host communities and support sustainable national development,” he added.

Mr. Pathak thanked the Lagos State Government, the Tutor General/Permanent Secretary, and the school management teams for their collaboration in identifying the schools’ needs and ensuring the timely completion of the projects.

Dr. Idowu Olufunke Oyetola, Tutor General and Permanent Secretary of Education District 3, Lagos State Ministry of Education, who was represented by Mr. Bolaji Rotimi Ajayi, Director of School Administration, praised the long-standing partnership with Dangote Cement, noting that the schools selected for the donations were fortunate beneficiaries. “We hope for more collaborations that will positively impact education,” she added.

The principals of the recipient schools expressed their gratitude after the formal handover of the projects.

Mrs. Odunlami Olubunmi, Principal of Ilado Community Junior High School, Ikoyi, thanked Dangote Cement for the new desks, stating that the donation would significantly improve the learning environment for the students, helping to prepare them for a brighter future.

Bamidele Ayotunde, Principal of the school with the refurbished laboratory, urged other businesses to follow Dangote Cement’s example in supporting local schools, pointing out the positive impact of the laboratory’s renovation on the school’s learning environment.

The Principal of Ireti Senior Grammar School, Ikoyi, whose school received the new desktop computers, described the donation as a positive development and expressed hope for more support in the future.

Pupils also shared their appreciation for the contributions. Abiola Jamaudeen, a lab prefect at Government Senior College, Ikoyi, promised that the laboratory would be used to its fullest potential and well-maintained.

Lawal Rumayzo Abdulsalam, a student at the school, said the new library equipment would foster better reading habits and create a more conducive environment for learning, ultimately preparing them for success. Some students even performed special songs to welcome the Dangote team to their schools.

Tags Dangote Cement CSR

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Dangote Cement, Ibese, fetes senior citizens in host communities

Post author By Victor Ogunyinka
Post date November 17, 2024
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Gives free medical checks, drugs, wheelchairs

Dangote Cement, Ibese Plant at the weekend extended the frontier of its social investments in the wellbeing of its 17 host communities when it hosted the senior citizens in the communities offering them free medical services and mobility equipment for the people with disabilities including wheelchairs

The Company said the gesture was aimed at complementing the effort of the government in improving the lives of the people of Ogun state especially those in whose territory the leading cement manufacturer operates.

Tagged “A Day-Out with Senior Citizens 2024”, the well-attended annual event saw the elderly ones being led in physical exercise, receiving health talks, medical checks, free drugs and other food and household items like rice, semo, honey, beverages, bathing soaps, detergent, clothing and cash incentive.

In his address of welcome, the Dangote Cement, Ibese Plant Director, Roy Uttam said the event was aimed at increasing the level of socialisation, engagement, emotional and mental wellbeing among the elderly around its host communities.

Uttam, pointed out that the management of Ibese Plant remain deeply committed to its responsibilities under the Community Development Agreement signed in 2022, saying “we will continue to prioritise the transfer of both economic and social benefits to our host communities, focusing on areas such as health, education, infrastructure, and empowerment.

“It is gratifying that our social investment strides are making meaningful impact in the lives of people across the host communities. We are determined to keep improving and broadening our initiatives, as we work together for the benefit of all.

“As elders who have devoted your youthful lives to the growth and development of your communities, the focus now should be on your health and well-being and the overall goodness of the society. This event is designed with your health in mind, as well as to offer an opportunity to reflect and connect with one another to promote longevity,” he said.

While reveling on the success of the maiden edition last year, Mr Uttam recalled that “we hosted 50 elderly members of our host communities for the first time in the history of this Plant. It was a memorable event filled with activities that demonstrated deep recognition for this all-important people in our society and promoted healthy living among them. It was a significant milestone for the Plant and the communities.

“We have made significant improvements this year, including the identification of five persons with disabilities from our host communities, who will each receive mobility aids to enhance their quality of life. This is just one example of how we continue to expand the scope of our social investments to create even greater impact”.

Uttam assured the host communities that the Plant would continue to live up to its responsibilities as regards the execution of the existing Community Development Agreement (CDA) even much more beyond saying some of the social investment initiatives of the Plant when well appraised, go beyond the letters of the signed CDA.

The Dangote Cement boss noted with nostalgia that the company’s social investment strides are making meaningful impact in the lives of people across the host communities and promised that the management was “determined to keep improving and broadening our initiatives, as we work together for the benefit of all.”

The Plant Director noted that In line with the company’s local content initiative, it had retained the services of Novia Hospital Services, a local healthcare provider, to assist in making this event a success. He assured the people of Dangote Cement’s continued support and believe that with the people’s cooperation and collaboration, the management will continue to build on “our shared vision of peace and prosperity”.

In his own comment, the Group Head of Social Performance, Dangote Cement Plc, Mr. Wakeel Olayiwola said the whole idea about hosting the elderly ones in the host communities borders on carrying along the old ones who are the foundation upon whom the new generations are building on. “They also need to be active in their old age”, he stated.

Responding on behalf of other elders, a beneficiary, Pa Michael Oderinlo from Ijako-Orile host community thanked the management of Dangote Cement for the gesture especially for reaching out to the elders which he said was not a common practice among business organisations.

Said he: “it is a very rare gesture by a business organization to take special interest in the old people and cater to their wellbeing.”

Also, another beneficiary of the wheelchair, Modupeola, Olaoluwa Bankole described the wheelchair donation as very touching and timely saying she now has a new lease of life with the mobility aid andtanked the Dangote Cement management for coming to her aid.

Tags Dangote Cement Ibese, Senior citizens in Ibese

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Local Content: Dangote Cement, Ibese Plant enhances skills of local business operators

Post author By Victor Ogunyinka
Post date October 30, 2024
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The management of Dangote Cement’s Ibese Plant has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing its local content policy, aiming to stimulate the economies of its 17 host communities through skills development and increased business opportunities for local enterprises.

During a one-day capacity development workshop for local vendors, themed “Leveraging DCPI’s Processes and Procedures to Build Viable Local Businesses,” Acting Ibese Plant Director Mr. Johnson Michael expressed this commitment.

Since the plant’s establishment over a decade ago, Michael noted that the company has significantly impacted not only the host communities but also the wider Ogun State. He emphasised that Dangote Cement would continue to prioritise local autonomous businesses to enhance economic resilience within the state.

The workshop, held at the plant premises in Ibese, attracted numerous local service providers and suppliers from neighbouring communities. Michael explained that the event aimed to broaden vendors’ perspectives and deepen their understanding, thereby unlocking greater business opportunities, improving operational efficiency, and strengthening safety and security practices.

He noted that this initiative, the first of its kind at the Ibese Plant, is part of Dangote Cement Plc’s local content development strategy and reflects a strategic partnership with host communities to promote sustainable development and prosperity. The workshop was designed to equip participating vendors with the tools and insights necessary to thrive within and beyond the company’s ecosystem.

On behalf of the vendors, Deacon Segun Omoniyi from Abadom Commercial Enterprises expressed gratitude for Dangote Cement’s investment in upskilling and fostering the growth of local businesses. He assured that the knowledge gained would enhance service delivery and operational excellence at the plant.

The initiative saw effective collaboration among various departments, including Human Asset Management & Administration, Occupational Health, Safety and Environment, Procurement, Security Services, Stores, Finance & Accounts, and Social Performance.

Recently, the Ibese Plant also donated agricultural supplies to local farmers as part of a broader empowerment programme aimed at ensuring food security for the community. During the presentation, over 60 farmers from the 17 host communities received fertilizers, herbicides, and knapsack sprayers to assist them in the upcoming farming season. They also received training on “Integrated Pest Management and Crop Protection,” covering the application of the donated inputs as well as general pest management techniques.

The plant management noted that these donations are part of Dangote Cement’s Social Investment drive, which focuses on four key areas: Education, Health, Empowerment, and Infrastructure. They emphasised that the company’s community investments and their positive impacts on residents demonstrate Dangote Cement’s dedication to adding social value to its host communities.

According to the company, the initiative aims to enhance the productivity of participating farmers, strengthen food security, and boost revenue across the agricultural value chain in the host communities. “We hope that this intervention will positively impact the production of garri, fufu, and kokoro, which are staple foods in the area,” they added.

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Food Security: Dangote Cement Ibese donates agricultural inputs to farmers in HostCom

Post author By Victor Ogunyinka
Post date September 4, 2024
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Trains farmers on applications

Determined to boost food production and enhance socio-economic development of its host communities, Dangote Cement, Ibese Plant has donated agricultural supplies to local farmers. This initiative is part of the company’s broader empowerment programme designed to ensure food security for the people.

In what has become an annual programme, 60 farmers from the 17 host communities of the Cement Plant received fertilizers, herbicides, and knapsack sprayers to aid them in the upcoming farming season.

During the presentation event at Ibese, the farmers also received training on “Integrated Pest Management and Crop Protection,” which covered the application of the donated inputs as well as general pest management and crop protection techniques.

Director of the Ibese Plant, Roy Uttam, explained that this donation is part of Dangote Cement’s Social Investment drive, which focuses on four key areas: Education, Health, Empowerment, and Infrastructure. He emphasised that the company’s community investments and their positive impacts on local residents demonstrate Dangote Cement’s commitment to adding social value to its host communities.

“Today, sixty farmers across our 17 host communities are being trained on the theme ‘Integrated Pest Management and Crop Protection’ and each will go home with 2 bags each of 50KG NPK 15:15:15 and Urea Fertilizers, 3 litres of Force Up Herbicide and 15 litre capacity Knapsack Sprayer.”

According to him, the gesture aimed to enhance the productivity of the participating farmers, strengthen food security, and boost revenue across the agricultural value chain in the host communities. “It is our hope that this intervention will positively impact the production of garri, fufu and kokoro, which are the major foods in the host communities.”

Mr. Uttam noted that climate change and extreme weather conditions have significantly impacted crop production and agricultural pests. He highlighted that inconsistent rainfall this year has negatively affected farmers’ productivity in the first planting season. Experts predict that these challenges may continue to impact food harvests in 2024 and beyond.

He noted “Today’s gathering is twofold, because apart from the distribution of farm inputs, we have also engaged the services of an agricultural experts who will equip the farmers with information on best practices to remain resilient even in these times of uncertain climate trajectory.”

Recalling past support initiatives, Uttam revealed that since the start of the Community Development Agreement (CDA) in 2022, 180 farmers from the Ibese Plant’s host communities have received training, farm inputs, and tools. These efforts have had a significant impact on the local economy. He assured that the Cement Company is committed to continuing its support for farmers across the host communities.

Uttam emphasised that the distribution of farm inputs underscores the strong relationship between the Plant and the host communities. He noted that such empowerment programs can only thrive in a peaceful and stable business environment.

“We do not take the support of our stakeholders, both young and old, for granted and as committed in the CDA, we will continue to strive to complement the effort of the Government towards the socio-economic development of the local communities.”

The Plant Director acknowledged the crucial role farmers play in sustaining every community, emphasising that their daily efforts in tilling the land to ensure food availability are essential to human existence.

To maximize the positive impact of Dangote Cement’s contributions to enhancing farmers’ productivity, he urged the beneficiaries to utilize the provided resources to expand their farms. He encouraged them to elevate their communities to become the leading food producers of Yewa and Ewekoro, and to contribute to Ogun State’s overall agricultural success.

“I also implore you to also continue to get updated with new developments in the agriculture space and as much as possible, embrace the use of technology to remain competitive in this rapidly changing world. At Dangote Cement, Ibese, we assure you of our unflinching commitment to complementing the Government’s effort through value adding initiatives geared towards the overall development of the Community on a continuous basis,” Uttam concluded.

In his remarks, Chairman of the Communities’ Representatives, Dayo Ogunyinka, expressed gratitude to Dangote Cement’s management for the intervention. He highlighted that the farmers’ empowerment comes at a critical time, as nearly 80 percent of the incomes in these communities are spent on food. Ogunyinka noted that the donated implements would greatly assist the farmers in achieving better yields and bumper harvests. He urged the farmers to take the training seriously, as it would provide essential guidance on the proper use of the donated items.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, farmer Waheed Orisatola from the Abule-Oke host community assured that the farmers would honour Dangote Cement’s support and use the implements as intended.

Tags Dangote fertliser

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Dangote Cement Gboko commits to sustainable infrastructural development of HOSTCOM

Post author By Victor Ogunyinka
Post date August 29, 2024
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The management of Dangote Cement, Gboko Plant has declared that its host communities are critical stakeholders in its business operations and, as such, their developmental needs are given high priority.

Gboko Plant Director, Louis Raj, emphasised the company’s unwavering commitment to the infrastructural and socio-economic development of the host communities. He assured that every segment of the host communities would benefit from the social investments being made by the company.

Addressing a recent report alleging neglect of the communities, the management clarified that the cement company has always fulfilled its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitments and has maintained a robust, mutually beneficial relationship with community members.

Mr. Raj noted that the company has been diligently implementing the Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with the host communities and has extended its CSR efforts to include sustainable environmental practices, capacity building, and infrastructural development.

He further stated that the Gboko Cement Plant operates in full compliance with environmental and other government regulations. “It is on record and verifiable that all government agencies responsible for industrial ecological assessment have periodically visited the Gboko Cement Plant and certified that it operates within approved industrial environmental limits. The Federal Ministry of Environment, Benue State Agency of Environment, National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), and other oversight agencies can attest to these claims.

“Whenever an incident of ecological concern arises, the company takes prompt action to ensure proper remediation, and, in some cases, provides appropriate compensation to affected community members.”

He explained that the company has actively contributed to alleviating water crises in several communities, even those beyond its immediate host areas. Over the years, the DCP Gboko plant has installed more than 50 hand-pump and motorised water boreholes across various settlements. Of these projects, 17 have been executed in the Mbayion clan, benefiting the immediate host communities of Amua, Tse-Kucha, and the Quarry Community.

Mr. Raj also noted that the company is currently constructing additional motorised water boreholes and is in the process of installing pumps and 30,000-liter capacity steel overhead water tanks for these communities.

“In response to a request from the Tse-Kucha community, the company recently repaired the flow valve at the water earth dam that supplies water for various household uses. Additionally, plans have been finalised for a comprehensive rehabilitation of the earth dam, which was originally constructed and donated to the Tse-Kucha community by the then-Benue Cement Company over 30 years ago.

While these community water projects are underway and nearing completion, the company is currently addressing water supply challenges by providing water to households in Tse-Kucha using tanker trucks positioned at strategic locations within the community.”

The Gboko plant director emphasised that Dangote Cement is committed to environmental sustainability and addressing climate change. He highlighted that the company has implemented a robust climate change policy that aligns its operations with global climate goals. As part of the Group’s environmental sustainability programme, the DCP Gboko Plant has initiated a deliberate decarbonization effort, including extensive tree planting across various community settlements.

“We urge all stakeholders of Dangote Cement, Gboko Plant to collaborate with management to ensure ongoing community engagement and dialogue. This will foster a harmonious and peaceful coexistence and create a conducive business environment for the benefit of all.”

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Dangote Cement launches students’ industrial internship scheme

Post author By Victor Ogunyinka
Post date August 15, 2024
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Dangote Cement Plc has launched a novel Internship Scheme for students of tertiary institutions in Nigeria that will see the students undergoing a one-year internship fully funded by the leading cement company.

The scheme, according to the Dangote Cement Lagos Regional Sales Director, Mr Tunde Mabogunje during the induction of pioneer students of Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, has been designed to provide practical and hand on the job experience for excellent Engineering students in the higher institutions across Nigeria.

He explained that the scheme is part of Dangote Cement’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and offers a unique opportunity for engineering students to apply the knowledge they’ve gained in classrooms and laboratories to real-world situations. By combining their academic learning with practical, on-field training, students will emerge as well-rounded engineers.

Mobogunje said “We are kicking off this phase of the scheme in Lagos and Kano States. A total of 20 students are involved with 10 students selected from each of the two states. In selecting the interns, we wrote to the authorities of Yaba College of Technology and Kano Polytechnic requesting for the list of the best performing students in Building Studies.

“We are to train the selected students on the right application of cement with specific reference to Dangote Cement in accordance with Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) prescriptions. The interns are to be deployed to various building project sites while technical officers from Dangote Cement will be on ground to monitor them.”

The Dangote Cement boss pointed out that the project underscores the company’s belief that acquisition of vocational and technical skills is vital to the wellbeing of any sector in particular and the economy as a whole. “They are vital prerequisite for growth. However, dearth of vocational and technical skills has had an adverse effect on the building sector. This internship programme is apt and a major step in the right direction towards addressing the gap. As trainees gain practical field experience, they will be well-prepared to become well-rounded professionals and make significant contributions to the industry.

“At Dangote Group, we are committed to providing vocational training to young Nigerians to equip them with a range of valuable skills. To address gaps in some of our plants, we recruited graduates from engineering and technology-based programmes and trained them in various aspects of industrial operations. These technicians were subsequently deployed to our plants in Obajana, Ibese, Gboko, as well as our sugar and salt refineries in Apapa and Ikeja. They have demonstrated that, with the right training and orientation, young Nigerians excel in every assignment they undertake.

“For our oil refinery and fertiliser plant, we recruited hundreds of graduates of Engineering based courses and sent them abroad for training. This set of professionals are now running the new plants and are training other sets of engineers through skill transfer.

“We provide vocational training programmes for our host communities. The youths are veritable assets in any society and the quality of the youths determines the outlook of tomorrow’s society. Therefore, an investment in developing vocational skills among youths will yield the desired results.”

In his remark, the Rector of Yaba College of Technology, Dr. (Engr.) Ibraheem Adedotun Abdul commended Dangote Cement management for the scheme describing it as a landmark achievement in Corporate Social Responsibility.

He expressed happiness that Yaba College of Technology has been chosen as a pioneer institution for the scheme and assured that the participating students from the institution would live up to expectation and the scheme will achieve its objective of bridging the gap between academic performance and practical experience.

The programme the Rector said would expose the students to practical aspects of their field of studies and so when they finished in school they would have acquired the necessary skills that will make them take off as a professional with ease.

Engr. Abdul stated that the College has other groups, institutions, and Companies which it partners with for the purpose of advancing the skills of the students. He then disclosed that the College management was at the verge of setting up Industry Advisory Committee for which he canvassed for a representative from Dangote Cement.

While noting that the door of Yaba College of Technology is opened to further partnerships by Dangote cement and other similar organisations, the Rector assured that the initiative would make the student sound both on and off the field and be more useful to the society.

Also speaking during the induction, Dangote Cement National Sales Director, Funmi Sani said the internship initiative was not unexpected from Dangote Cement because the company stands for quality and anything that would bring quality into both academic and practical skills application would interest the company.

He urged the students to take the maximum opportunity provided by the scheme to up their game and stand out among the rest, noting that they will be paid by Dangote Cement for the period of the internship.

Tags dangote cement, industrial internship scheme

News

Dangote Cement places premium on community engagement, sustainability in Host communities

Post author By Victor Ogunyinka
Post date May 14, 2024
No Comments on Dangote Cement places premium on community engagement, sustainability in Host communities

Dangote Cement Plc, is prioritizing community engagement, empowerment, and environmental stewardship to sustain its upward trajectory,

The cement manufacturing firm said it believed that true progress is measured not only by economic prosperity but also by the holistic development of all stakeholders.

The Plant Director of Dangote Cement Plc Obajana, Mr Azad Nawabuddin, who disclosed this during a media chat in Obajana, said that the relationship between Dangote Cement and its host communities and other stakeholders transcends transactional exchanges as it is built on a foundation of trust, mutual respect, and shared aspirations.

“The communities in which we operate are not just beneficiaries; they are our partners in progress,” he affirmed.

While reaffirming the company’s commitment to its host communities, Nawabuddin, who recently moved from the Ibese plant, emphasized that the company would collaborate with key stakeholders in Obajana to implement impactful projects.

He said crucial to the vision is the empowerment of residents through skills development and capacity-building initiatives. “We recognize the importance of equipping community members with the requisite skills to thrive in today’s competitive landscape,” Nawabuddin asserted.

The Dangote Cement boss said this will enhance employability and foster entrepreneurship among youth and women in the host communities.

With a steadfast commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainable development, Nawabuddin outlined initiatives to strengthen the bond between Dangote Cement and the communities. He emphasized that the company views its host communities as partners.

“In terms of community engagement, we will hold meetings to explore avenues for supporting them, including opportunities for businesses and contracts. The communities are integral partners for us. Through dialogue with them, we aim to execute significant projects that will bring them lasting benefits,” he stated.

Nawabuddin also stressed the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainable practices in Dangote Cement’s operations. “We are custodians of the environment, and it is our duty to ensure that our activities leave a positive impact on the ecosystem,” he added.

Nawabuddin explained that in addition to socio-economic development is the importance of addressing security concerns in the host communities. He said through collaborative efforts with law enforcement agencies and community-based initiatives, security risks will be mitigated, and the well-being of residents will be upheld.

“We are working closely with local authorities and community leaders to enhance security measures and create a safe and conducive environment for all,” he added.

Tags Dangotd Cement, obajana

News PRESS RELEASE

Outcome of The Meeting of Directors

Post author By ContentM
Post date July 2, 2020

Issued: March 18, 2021
Lagos, Nigeria

Outcome of The Meeting of Directors

This is to announce that at the meeting of the Board of Directors held on March 18 2021, the Board approved the Audited Financial Statements of the Company for the year ended December 31 2020. The Audited Financial Statements will be filed with the NSE on or before March 31 2021.

At this meeting, the Board also approved the recommendation of a dividend of N16.00 to the shareholders at the forthcoming Annual General Meeting. The date of the Annual General Meeting will be announced shortly.

Pursuant to this, the Closed Period will continue until 24 hours after the audited financial statements are published.

The Closed Period is applicable to all parties that may at any time possess sensitive information that may materially affect the price of the securities of the Company.

Signed:

Edward Imoedemhe
Deputy Company Secretary

Tags aliko dangote, dangote sugar, savannah sugar

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