Dangote Cement Plc Empowers 30 Entrepreneurs in Nigeria
By Patience Ikpeme
In a move to boost food production and strengthen the Nigerian economy, Dangote Cement Plc has announced the creation of 30 new entrepreneurs.
These “Chief Executives” as they are known recently graduated after completing a three-month intensive entrepreneurial and skill acquisition training program focused on poultry farming and business.
The graduation ceremony, held at the Dangote Cement Plc plant in Obajana, Kogi State, showcased the company’s commitment to supporting the government and the nation.
Mr. JV Gungune, Plant Director of Dangote Cement Plc, expressed the company’s dedication to corporate social responsibility and philanthropy.
Speaking on behalf of the President and Chief Executive, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Mr. Gungune urged the beneficiaries to take advantage of the scheme and the skills they have acquired.
He emphasized that not everyone can be directly employed by the company, making this programme crucial for empowering individuals and promoting self-sufficiency.
The success of this initiative was attributed to the peaceful coexistence between Dangote Cement Plc and the communities it operates in. Mr. Gungune stressed the need for youth to acquire skills, stating that the era of relying solely on academic certificates is over.
Representatives from the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development in Kogi State also commended Dangote Cement Plc for its contribution to economic and social activities in the region. They urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the opportunities provided to them.
Mr. Ademola Adeyemi, General Manager of Community Relations and Special Duties at Dangote Cement Plc, stated that the scheme is part of the company’s corporate social responsibility efforts. Out of the 30 participants, 18 were female and 12 were male. The training was carried out by the Kogi State College of Education (Technical) in Kabba.
The programme aimed to transform the youth into skilled individuals who are self-reliant and independent. It focused specifically on developing poultry entrepreneurs rather than just farmers. The goal was to eradicate poverty and other social vices that have affected communities in the area.
The graduates received starter packs, including medications, vitamins, cages, feeds, and 50 layers, as well as poultry farming equipment. Dr. Micheal Udoma, representing the Provost of the Kogi State College of Education (Technical), expressed gratitude to Dangote Cement Plc for empowering the beneficiaries.
Engr Wale Adedeji, Head of the Dangote Academy, advised the new entrepreneurs to reinvest their profits and learn from the company’s founder, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, who is known for his business acumen.
Leaders from the communities, including Dr. Idowu Isenibi and Dr. Frederick Balogun, expressed optimism that the program would bring about a significant transformation in the economy of Obajana and Kogi State as a whole. Mr. Alolo Victor Eleojo, speaking on behalf of the graduates, shared their commitment to investing in their businesses and not disappointing the Dangote Group or Nigerians.
The establishment of these 30 entrepreneurs signifies Dangote Cement Plc’s commitment to empowering individuals and contributing to the growth and development of Nigeria’s economy.
