Dangote Refinery Empowers Students with Scholarships and School Donations
By Patience Ikpeme
Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals, in collaboration with Dangote Fertilisers Limited, has awarded scholarships to 473 students from 10 secondary schools and 7 tertiary institutions in its host communities.
This initiative, part of the 5th Edition of the Dangote Scholarship Award Programme, also saw the donation of 804 tables and chairs to secondary schools in Ibeju-Lekki.
The scholarship award ceremony witnessed an outpouring of joy from students, parents, teachers, and community leaders. Scholarship certificates were presented to the beneficiaries, along with essential educational materials such as textbooks and notebooks.
Devakumar Edwin, Group Vice President of Oil & Gas at Dangote Industries Limited, emphasized that the initiative embodies a shared vision of fostering sustainable growth within the host communities. “This partnership is built on a foundation of education, innovation, and opportunity,” he stated.
Mr. Edwin further emphasized that the scholarship programme is not merely a philanthropic gesture but a reaffirmation of the company’s commitment to nurturing potential and empowering future generations. He stressed the importance of education, stating, “At Dangote, we believe that education is not just a privilege but a right that every child deserves.” This belief, he explained, has driven the company’s dedication to supporting students and schools since the inception of the Scholarship Award Programme in 2019.
Mr. Edwin commended the students for their dedication and academic achievements, noting the impressive growth of the program – from 56 beneficiaries in 2019 to 450 in 2024. He expressed confidence that the provided resources would empower the students to achieve their academic goals and contribute meaningfully to society.
The donation of 804 tables and chairs to schools further exemplifies Dangote’s commitment to enhancing the learning environment. By providing conducive learning spaces, the company aims to ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow, dream, and thrive.
Mr. Edwin expressed gratitude to community leaders and school administrators for their invaluable support in making the program a success. He emphasized the importance of continued collaboration in empowering the next generation.
Olayinka Akande, Managing Director of Dangote Industries Free Zone Development Company (DIFZDC), urged the scholarship recipients to uphold excellence, a core value within the Dangote Group. Emphasizing the importance of dedication and diligence, Mr. Akande encouraged the students to aim high, inspiring them to strive for greatness and potentially become future leaders, even the next “Edwin” in their respective fields.
Ogunleye Mojisola, Head of Social Performance at Dangote Petroleum & Petrochemicals, highlighted that the education intervention is a key pillar of the company’s Community Development Plan, developed in collaboration with the community. The significant increase in the number of beneficiaries each year serves as a testament to the program’s effectiveness in motivating students to excel academically.
The Aro of Lekki Kingdom, Chief Adewale Salami, representing the Oni of Lekki, expressed his appreciation for Dangote Industries’ contribution to the community’s future. Alhaji Wasiu Ayeola, Chairman of the Lekki Coastal Area Development Association, lauded Aliko Dangote, the founder and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, for transforming the region and creating significant economic opportunities for the community and the nation. He emphasized that education is crucial for the future development of the community.
Several beneficiaries, including Atibere Peter from Lagos State University, Dauda Omolara and Ganiu Ayomide from Community Senior High School, expressed their deep gratitude for the scholarship support, acknowledging that it would significantly alleviate the financial burden on their families and motivate them to strive for academic excellence.
This initiative by Dangote Refinery demonstrates a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility and highlights the company’s significant impact on the lives of young people and the development of its host communities.
