*Dangote Cement, Ibese Plant, in Ogun State of Nigeria, activates the company’s local content policy to stimulate the economies of its 17 host communities through skills development to boost business opportunities for local enterprises

Alexander Davis | 绿帽献妻

The Management of Dangote Cement, Ibese Plant, has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing local content policy.

The conglomerate said the aim of the initiative is to stimulate the economies of its 17 host communities through skills development and increased business opportunities for local enterprises.

Dangote Group, in a statement Monday, October 28, 2024, said the workshop was designed to equip participating vendors with the tools and insights necessary to thrive within and beyond the company鈥檚 ecosystem.

The one-day capacity development workshop for local vendors had the theme, “Leveraging DCPI’s Processes and Procedures to Build Viable Local Businesses”.

Speaking at the workshop, Mr. Johnson Michael, Acting Ibese Plant Director, expressed the commitment of the company to supporting the development of local businesses.

Since the plant’s establishment over a decade ago, Michael noted that Dangote Cement Ibese Plant has significantly impacted not only the host communities but also the wider Ogun State.

The Acting Plant Director as also emphasised that Dangote Cement would continue to prioritise local autonomous businesses to enhance economic resilience within the state.

The workshop, held on the plant premises of Ibese Plant attracted numerous local service providers and suppliers from neighbouring communities.

Michael as well 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.

The top official of the company as also disclosed that the initiative described as the first of its kind at the Ibese Plant, is part of Dangote Cement Plc鈥檚 local content development strategy.

He stated the initiative reflects a strategic partnership with host communities to promote sustainable development and prosperity.

On behalf of the vendors, Deacon Segun Omoniyi from Abadom Commercial Enterprises, expressed gratitude to Dangote Cement Plc for its investment in upskilling and fostering the growth of local businesses.

Omoniyi 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.

The participants further emphasised that the company’s community investments and their positive impacts on residents demonstrate Dangote Cement鈥檚 dedication to adding social value to its host communities.

Restating the importance of the capacity building programme, Dangote Cement averred that 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.

The Management added: “We hope that this intervention will positively impact the production of garri, fufu, and kokoro, which are staple foods in the area.”

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