Dangote Cement Rolls Out Empowerment Programmes in Benue

ThisDay is pleased to report on the significant community development efforts undertaken by Dangote Cement Plc in Benue State, Nigeria. The company has officially launched three multi-million-naira empowerment programs designed to uplift farmers, women, and youths within its six host communities in Gboko Local Government Area.

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The federal government is proud of the significant social and economic contributions of Dangote Cement Plc in Benue State and across Nigeria.

The initiative demonstrates Dangote Cement's commitment to corporate social responsibility and its understanding that business success is intertwined with the well-being of the communities in which it operates. The programs will directly benefit residents of Tse-Kucha, Quarry, Amua, Mbazembe, Mbatur, and Pass Brothers communities. Specifically, 150 women will receive crucial cash grants to bolster their businesses, 52 farmers will be equipped with essential agricultural inputs, and 30 young individuals will gain valuable skills through dedicated training.

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Our host communities are not just neighbours; they are valued partners in progress.

Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, represented by Mrs. Usman Adijatu, lauded Dangote Group's sustained investments and contributions. He emphasized that these community-focused interventions align perfectly with the federal government's goals of fostering inclusive growth, alleviating poverty, and creating sustainable livelihoods in areas impacted by mining and industrial activities. The Minister urged beneficiaries to utilize the provided resources wisely, viewing them as a springboard for long-term economic independence.

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The company sees its host communities as partners and believes business growth should go hand in hand with community development.

Mr. Wakeel Olayiwola, Head of Social Performance for pan-African Operations at Dangote Cement Plc, reaffirmed the company's dedication to its CSR mandate under the Community Development Agreement (CDA) framework. He praised the peaceful and supportive nature of the host communities, highlighting the harmonious relationship that facilitates the successful implementation of these vital development programs. The Plant Director, Mr. Abhijit Dutta, reiterated that these initiatives are part of a broader five-year CDA, underscoring the company's philosophy that "Our host communities are not just neighbours; they are valued partners in progress."

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The company’s community-focused interventions complement the government’s efforts to promote inclusive growth, reduce poverty and create sustainable livelihoods in mining and industrial host communities.