By The implementation of the Community Development Agreement with host communities by the management of Dangote Cement, Ibese Plant, came under applause at the weekend as host communities as well as the Federal Ministry of Solid Mineral Development praised the management for diligent execution of the agreement for the benefit of the rural communities.
South-West Zonal Coordinator, Mines Environment Compliance for the Ministry, Mr. Mathew Ochimana expressed delight at the way and manner the Dangote Cement Ibese Plant has been socially responsible to its host communities thereby fostering atmosphere of peace all year round.
He spoke during the certificates award and starter packs presentation to the host community youths who completed the 2024 Youth Skill Acquisition and Empowerment Programme organized by the Ibese plant of the foremost Cement Plant in Ogun state.
Ochiama who was represented by tan officer of the Ministry pointed out that his ministry has never had cause to wade into any dispute between the management and host communities but had always been invited for one programme or the other that benefits the people and the communities.
While urging Dangote Cement to continue partner with the host communities with more empowerment programmes to develop the communities and equip the people, he also enjoined the host communities to reciprocate the good gesture by maintaining peace and supporting the company to do more.
Speaking in the same vein, the Chairman, Host Communities Joint Consultative Committee, Dayo Ogunyinka thanked Dangote Cement for always rising up to the occasion noting that the company has never shied away from its social responsibilities by constantly developing programmes that could lift the people and add value to them.
Addressing the youths earlier, Dangote Cement Ibese Plant Director, Mr. Roy Uttam, explained that the training initiative was a partnership between Dangote Cement Plc and the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Abeokuta Area Office, and that it underscored the company’s commitment to socio-economic development in its host communities.
He reaffirmed the company’s dedication to corporate social responsibility, emphasizing its focus on Health, Education, Infrastructure, and Empowerment. He noted that the Dangote Academy and various training programs have continued to create employment opportunities and enhance skill acquisition among Nigerian youths.
Said he; “Dangote Cement’s recognition of the youth as a critical stakeholder group is evident in our commitment to collaborating with them to unlock their potential and empower them to succeed.
“In addition to our annual skills acquisition program, we also offer annual scholarship awards for 120 brilliant and indigent students. We have established dedicated structure to ensure that we consistently listen to, and address the concerns of the youths, while also providing training on effective representation to enhance their capacity to lead and serve in various roles in the society.
Also speaking at the event, ITF Area Manager, Abeokuta, Mrs. Abolanle Ajibade, also expressed special thanks to Dangote Cement Plc, stating, “It is with a sense of accomplishment that I stand before you to bring this impactful 2024 skills acquisition and empowerment training program to a close.
Chairman of Yewa North Local Government, Dr. Akinbode Olusola advised the youth participants to see the training as a life time opportunity to make a difference in life noting that thousands of youth in the society would not have access to the opportunity they are getting on a platter of gold.
The Group Head Social Performance DCP, Mr. Ademola Ojolowo, highlighted the importance of the tools given to the trainees, emphasizing their role in empowering the youths to start making an impact in their communities immediately. He encouraged them to implement their skills and begin their entrepreneurial journey without delay.
