Dangote Cement Commits To Empowering Indigenous Communities For Self-Sustainability – Ibese Plant Director (+photos)

BY ABU-SATAR HAMED & PETER OLANIYAN

IBESE-YEWA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA -In a bid to foster self-sufficiency among indigenous populations, the Plant Director of Dangote Cement Ibese plant, Mr. Azad Nawabuddin, has emphasized the company’s dedication to delivering and upholding values crucial for the overall growth and development of local communities.

Speaking at the 2023 Host Community Youths Empowerment (HCYE) event held at the Transport Training Room, Admin Office, Dangote Cement Ibese-Yewa Plant on March 13, 2024, Nawabuddin, represented by Mr. Johnson Michael, highlighted the plant’s commitment to supporting indigenous individuals on their journey to self-sustainability.

During the event, thirty trainees selected from the host communities received certificates and startup kits after completing a two-month training program. These kits included professional sewing machines, shoe filing machines, and other essential accessories.

Nawabuddin underscored the importance of ongoing initiatives, including annual skills acquisition programs and scholarship awards for indigent and talented students.

He emphasized Dangote’s recognition of youths as vital stakeholders and reiterated the company’s commitment to nurturing their talents and addressing their concerns.

“We are delighted to witness another significant milestone in our social investment efforts, These thirty youths, who initially had limited knowledge in leatherwork and shoe making, have undergone intensive training and now possess skills that can empower them economically and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the nation as a whole”, Nawabuddin stated.

The event marked a transformative journey for participants, reflecting Dangote’s dedication to facilitating positive change and sustainable development within host communities.

“Since the inception of operations, a total of 305 youths from the host communities of the Ibese Plant have received training and empowerment in various skills, contributing significantly to the local economy. Moving forward, we are committed to working closely with our stakeholders to enhance the impact of this programme.

“In addition to the annual skills acquisition initiative, we offer scholarship awards to 120 deserving and talented students each year. We have also established a dedicated framework to ensure ongoing engagement with youths, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs addressed consistently.

“This underscores our recognition of youths as vital stakeholders in DCP’s mission, and our commitment to unlocking their inherent potentials.

“The recent group of trainees has demonstrated commendable dedication, setting admirable examples for others to emulate. We extend our gratitude to the Community Leaders and Representatives for their meticulous selection process, which has ensured the best candidates were chosen from the host communities.

“To the graduates, I encourage you to use this opportunity to establish your own businesses and become employers of labor. Take bold steps towards realizing your potential and embark on your journey to success without hesitation.

“In today’s technology-driven world, staying abreast of advancements in your field is essential. Embrace technological innovations to remain relevant and competitive in your chosen field.

“At DCP, we remain committed to implementing additional empowerment programs that add value to the communities and complement the government’s developmental efforts.

“It is our earnest hope and expectation that all stakeholders will continue to collaborate and support our organization, ensuring peaceful co-existence and shared prosperity for all.”

Expressing gratitude towards the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) for their support in the successful execution of the 2023 Host Community Youths Empowerment (HCYE), Mr. Sulaimon Mogaji, the assigned trainer from Dangote Cement, Ibese Plant, highlighted the commencement of training for the youths in October 30, 2023, in the craft of leatherwork and shoe making.

Despite starting with minimal knowledge, the trainees graduated excellently after undergoing intensive learning and extensive practice.

Mogaji commended Dangote Cement, Ibese Plant for providing standard and high-quality start-up packs to the 30 graduates, describing them as unparalleled in terms of quality and quantity compared to his previous experiences with state and federally sponsored programmes.

He emphasized the company’s genuine commitment to the welfare and success of the trainees.

Encouraging the graduates to stay updated with new designs through internet resources, Mogaji urged governments at all levels to emulate Dangote’s approach in providing valuable start-up packs.

In his address, Mr. Haruna Sorunke, the lead officer from ITF, commended the graduates for their diligence and urged them to strive for excellence, emphasizing that the training they received should not go to waste.

He encouraged them to utilize their start-up packs to become employers of labour and directed them to register individually on www.super.itf.com.

The Ogun State Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Hon. Adekunle Isiaka, thanked Dangote Cement for their support and urged the company to assist the newly graduated artisans in marketing their products.

He emphasized the importance of sales strategies in production and urged the beneficiaries to be diligent in the labour market, while encouraging Dangote to invest in the health sector and sponsor sports in the area.

Hon. Gabriel Ogunyomi, Chairman of Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, praised Dangote Cement, Ibese for their efforts in creating entrepreneurs within the host community and appealed for an increase in the number of trainees to further boost employment opportunities.

He advised the youths to make the most of their start-up packs to shape their future.

Mr. Wakil Olayiwola, Head of Social Performance at Dangote, assured the Commissioner of the company’s support for the forthcoming Gateway Games and urged parents to nurture the skills imparted to their children.

He assured the graduates of a ready-made market and encouraged them to explore technological innovations to enhance their skills.