*The Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and the host communities applaud the Management of Dangote Cement Plc for diligent execution of the agreement for benefit of rural communities, Ibese Plant concludes 2024 youth empowerment programme

Isola Moses | 绿帽献妻

The implementation of the Community Development Agreement with host communities by the Management of Dangote Cement, Ibese Plant, in Ogun State of Nigeria, at the weekend, attracted commendation from the Federal Government and host communities alike.

The Management of Dangote Group stated the host communities and the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development applauded the Management of the company for diligent execution of the agreement for the benefit of the rural communities in the state.

Mr. Matthew Ochimana, South-West Zonal Coordinator, Mines Environment Compliance for the Ministry, 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, the conglomerate stated.

Ochimana spoke during the award of certificates and starter packs presentation to the host community youths, who completed the 2024 Youth Skill Acquisition and Empowerment Programme.

The Ibese plant of the foremost Cement Plant, organised, in Ogun State.

Ochimana, represented by tan officer of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, observed the Nigerian Government 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.

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, Hon. Dayo Ogunyinka, Chairman of Host Communities Joint Consultative Committee, thanked Dangote Cement for always rising up to the occasion.

Ogunyinka noted 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.

The Chairman of Host Communities Joint Consultative Committee also recalled that the Ibese plant has been able to train host community youths in various skills.

鈥淚 can remember we have gathered here before to graduate those who were trained in the art of electrical electronics, those who specialised in shoe making, those who chose acupuncture, and today its painting and Plaster of Paris (PoP).

鈥淲orthy of mentioning is the fact Dangote Cement, Ibese Plant don鈥檛 just train, they also provide the starter pack to start for the graduands to start working straightaway, we cant ask for less,” he stared.

The Chairman also said: “I am, however, saddened that some of our youths run away from this lofty training by not presenting themselves.

鈥淲e are very lucky in our communities to have Dangote Cement here, they not only cater for the youths, they do for the women, the elderly, the farmers and others, we are indeed lucky.

“We can only pray that God will continue to be with the organisation.鈥�

Addressing the youths earlier, Mr. Roy Uttam, Dangote Cement Ibese Plant Director, 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.

Uttam reaffirmed the company’s dedication to corporate social responsibility, emphasising its focus on Health, Education, Infrastructure, and Empowerment.

He further noted that the Dangote Academy and various training programs have continued to create employment opportunities and enhance skill acquisition among Nigerian youths.

Recognising the economic challenges facing the country, Uttam stressed the need for young people to embrace self-reliance through vocational skills. He commended the thirty (30) graduates from the 17 host communities who successfully completed training in Plaster of Paris (PoP), screeding, and painting, urging them to utilise their newfound skills to build sustainable careers.

The trainees received start-up kits, including tools such as trowels, measuring tapes, and shovels, to aid them in establishing their businesses.

The Plant Director Ibese said: 鈥淒angote Cement鈥檚 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.

鈥淚n addition to our annual skills acquisition program, we also offer annual scholarship awards for 120 brilliant and indigent students.”

He equally noted: “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.

鈥淥ur objective is to empower local communities, enabling them to become self-sustaining through the delivery of tangible and lasting value.”

Uttam stated: 鈥淭oday, we proudly identify with another set of youths, thirty (30) in number, from our seventeen (17) host communities who will receive their certificates and start-up kits, including tools such as trowels, measuring tapes, shovels, and more after months of learning, perseverance and endurance.鈥�

Speaking at the event, Mrs. Abolanle Ajibade, ITF Area Manager, Abeokuta, in Ogun State, also expressed special thanks to Dangote Cement Plc, stating,

She said: “It is with a sense of accomplishment that I stand before you to bring this impactful 2024 skills acquisition and empowerment training programme to a close.

“This training programme, PoP, screeding, and painting, was not merely an opportunity to gain knowledge but also an avenue to forge connections, share experiences, and challenge ourselves to go beyond our comfort zones.”

Mrs. Ajibade stated: “To our facilitators, your dedication and expertise have been invaluable. You have gone above and beyond to provide us with tools, insights, and guidance needed to thrive.

“To participants, congratulations on your commitment, resilience, and passion throughout this training.鈥�

Dr. Akinbode Olusola, Chairman of Yewa North Local Government, 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.

He recalled how a vocation on photography marked a turning point in his life after gaining admission to higher institution as he would have dropped for lack of resources if not for the photography which he used to finance his education.

Mr. Ademola Ojolowo, Group Head, Social Performance DCP, highlighted the importance of the tools given to the trainees, emphasising 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.

“This initiative reflects Dangote Cement鈥檚 ongoing commitment to investing in human capital development and fostering economic self-sufficiency among Nigerian youths.

“As the programme continues to evolve, stakeholders remain optimistic about its lasting impact on the local economy and the empowerment of future generations.”

The Plant Director, assisted by other guests, handed out certificates to each participants, marking their official transition into the workforce as skilled professionals.

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