Dangote Cement Launches New Safety Initiative for Workers
By Patience Ikpeme
The Dangote Cement Plant in Ibese, Ogun State, has started a new program called “Safety FairPlay” to make the workplace safer for everyone.
This new plan is designed to change how workers think about safety, turning it into a daily habit rather than just a set of rules to follow. The company plans to take this same program to all its other cement plants across the country soon.
The Safety FairPlay plan works in three main ways: by rewarding those who follow safety rules, coaching those who make mistakes, and using discipline when necessary. The goal is to make sure that every worker feels responsible for their own safety and the safety of their colleagues. By being fair and transparent, the company wants workers to feel free to report accidents or near-misses without being afraid.
During the launch of the program, the Technical Director of Dangote Cement Plc, Mr. Anandam Duraisamy, told the workers that safety is now the most important part of their jobs.
He said: “Safety FairPlay marks a defining moment in the company’s journey toward building a workplace where safety is not just a policy, but a shared mindset—an everyday habit that defines who we are and how we work. We are here to launch an initiative that aims to transform not only what we do, but how we think, act, and respond when it comes to safety.”
Mr. Duraisamy also explained that when workers see that good behavior is rewarded and risky actions are handled fairly, they will trust the system more. He told the staff: “This initiative is about behavioural and cultural change. It recognises that true safety excellence goes beyond equipment, procedures, or compliance; it begins with people—our attitudes, our choices, and our willingness to look out for one another.”
The head of Health, Safety, and Environment at the Ibese Plant, Mr. Elvis Akalusi, praised the company’s leaders for bringing up the idea. He noted that all department heads would work together to make sure the safety rules become part of daily life at the factory. He encouraged the workers to be brave enough to do the right thing at all times.
Mr. Akalusi said: “This initiative will offer the tools, coaching, recognition, and accountability needed to help each of us make safer decisions. But its success depends on our shared commitment—our courage to consistently do the right thing, even when no one is watching.”
He also urged the staff to see mistakes as a chance to learn rather than something to hide. He added: “Let us approach this new chapter with open minds and a determination to improve. Let us build a culture where speaking up is encouraged, learning is continuous, and mistakes become opportunities to grow—not reasons for fear.”
With this new step, the Ibese plant is showing that it cares about protecting its workers and its equipment while making sure the business stays strong for a long time.
