Dangote: Championing Wellness For Host Community Elders, Hosts 2nd “Day Out With Senior Citizens” At Ibese Plant (+photos)

BY ABU-SATAR HAMED

IBESE-YEWA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA – The management of Dangote Cement Plc has expressed its commitment to consistently prioritize the wellness of elders in its host communities.

According to the Plant Director of the company’s Ibese Plant, Mr. Roy K. Uttam, the second edition of its “Day Out with Senior Citizens” programme, held at Dangote Cement Plc, Ibese Plant, on Thursday, November 14, 2024, is a special initiative aimed at enhancing the health and social well-being of elderly residents from host communities.

Mr. Uttam highlighted significant improvements in this year’s event, including the identification of five persons with disabilities from the host communities, each receiving mobility aids to improve 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. 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 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.

He also reaffirmed the company’s commitment to its responsibilities under the Community Development Agreement signed in 2022.

“At Dangote Cement, we remain deeply committed to transferring both economic and social benefits to our host communities, focusing on areas such as health, education, infrastructure, and empowerment,” he added.

Mr. Uttam expressed satisfaction with the impact of Dangote Cement’s social initiatives. “It is gratifying that our social investment strides are making meaningful impacts 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,” he said.

He acknowledged the contribution of Novia Hospital Services, a local healthcare provider, for supporting the event as part of Dangote Cement’s local content initiative.

“We assure you of our continued support and believe that with your cooperation and collaboration, we will continue to build on our shared vision of peace and prosperity,” he added.

The well-attended event featured several key activities, including: Health check-ups, medical talks, and physical exercises tailored for the elderly; Distribution of two wheelchairs and three walking aids to community members in need; A session on managing arthritis, the benefits of physical exercise, and healthy living practices led by Dr. Babatunde Jesusina of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro and Safety Briefing was conducted by Ibese Plant HSE Manager, Mrs. Balikis Dosunmu.

Mr. Michael Adegbite from NOUN led attendees through exercises and warm-ups, while Mr. Demola Ojolowo provided details of a special package prepared for this year’s event.

Dangote Cement showcased its commitment to care by providing attendees with a take-home pack containing 15 items, including rice (10kg), semo (2kg), Milo, milk, Lipton, honey, toothpaste, bathing soap (6 pcs), detergent, back scrubbers (2), a solar-powered transistor radio, Kampala fabric, juice, medications, and ₦15,000 cash as transport support.

Recipients of the walking aids and wheelchairs included: Miss Bankole Olaoluwa Modupeola (Ibese); Mr. Akeem Akinsola (Ijako-Orile); Mr. Owoyemi Kola (Atola); Chief M.A. Oderinlo (Ijako-Orile) and Mrs. Abigael Kolawole (Araromi).

The event also featured fun competitions such as Ludo and Opon Ayo. Winners included Mrs. Abeni Olorunnisola from Wasimi Imasayi (Ludo) and Mr. Semiu Falana from Afami (Opon Ayo).

Traditional dances and a Yoruba proverb challenge at the event allowed elders to engage in meaningful cultural exchanges, fostering community spirit.

The event was attended by Dangote Cement executives led by the Plant Director, Mr. Roy K. Uttam. Other attendees included: Mr. Wakeel Olayiwola (Group Head, Social Performance); Mr. Olugbenga Aina (GM, HAM/Admin); Mr. Luka Ayuba (ADT, Transport); Mr. Kizito Ugbaja (GM, Dangote Cement Packaging Limited); Mr. Francis Awowole-Brown (Dangote Branding & Communication); Mr. Emmanuel Abe (Chief Finance Officer); Mr. Oloyede Oladipupo (HR Manager) and Mr. Olusola Akinleye (Head, Internal Control).

Prominent local leaders, including Alhaji AbdulWsaiu Akinyemi and Otunba Abu-Satar Idowu Hamed, also graced the event.

This year’s “Day Out with Senior Citizens” was a resounding success, reinforcing the strong bond between Dangote Cement and its host communities while emphasizing care, respect, and collective responsibility.