Dangote Cement Powers Kogi State SME
By Patience Ikpeme
Dangote Cement Plc, Obajana Plant, has further demonstrated its commitment to supporting Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria by handing over a 33 KV public electricity power line and transformer to Jakura Marble Industry Ltd (JMIL).
The project involved extending high-tension power lines over 5 kilometers from Oyo community to JMIL’s facility, where a new transformer was installed to step down the power. This new infrastructure will enable JMIL to access reliable public electricity, reduce operational energy costs, and enhance production capacity. It also provides opportunities for future expansion and job creation as JMIL can now deploy additional machinery and equipment.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Plant Director of Dangote Cement Plc, Obajana Plant, Engr. Azad Nawabuddin, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting not only JMIL but also the local community. He highlighted the mutual benefits of strong partnerships and expressed Dangote Cement’s readiness to collaborate on initiatives that benefit both parties and contribute positively to the community.
The Managing Director of JMIL, Engr. Tony Ojile, expressed his gratitude to Dangote Industries Ltd (DIL) and Alhaji Aliko Dangote for their significant contributions to the development of Nigeria and Africa. He commended the Plant Director for his commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility schemes and expressed his company’s appreciation for the timely delivery of the electrification project.
Following the handover, the management teams of Dangote Cement Plc and Jakura Marble Industry Ltd conducted a site visit to review the high-tension lines and exchanged official handover documents at the transformer location. Mr. Nawabuddin also inspected JMIL’s facilities to gain a better understanding of the company’s operations.
This initiative by Dangote Cement is a testament to the company’s commitment to sustainable development and its role in empowering local businesses. By providing essential infrastructure like electricity, Dangote Cement is helping to create a more conducive environment for SMEs to thrive and contribute to the economic growth of the region.
