The implementation of the Community Development Agreement with host communities by the management of Dangote Cement Ibese Plant, received commendation at the weekend as host communities as well as the Federal Ministry of Solid Mineral Development praised the management for diligent execution of the agreement for the benefit of the rural communities.

South-West Zonal Coordinator, Mines Environment Compliance for the Ministry, Mr. Mathew Ochimana, expressed delight at the way and manner the Dangote Cement Ibese Plant has been socially responsible to its host communities thereby fostering an atmosphere of peace all year round.

He spoke during the certificates award and starter packs presentation to the host community youths who completed the 2024 Youth Skills Acquisition and Empowerment Programme organised by the Ibese plant of the foremost Cement Plant in Ogun State.

Ochimana, who was represented by an officer of the ministry pointed out that his ministry has never had cause to wade into any dispute between the management and host communities but had always been invited for one programme or the other that benefits the people and the communities.

While urging Dangote Cement to continue partnering with the host communities with more empowerment programmes to develop the communities and equip the people, he also enjoined the host communities to reciprocate the good gesture by maintaining peace and supporting the company to do more.

Speaking in the same vein, the Chairman, Host Communities Joint Consultative Committee, Hon. Dayo Ogunyinka, thanked Dangote Cement for always rising up to the occasion noting that the company has never shied away from its social responsibilities by constantly developing programmes that could lift the people and add value to them.

He recalled that the Ibese plant has been able to train host community youths in various skills, “I can remember we have gathered here before to graduate those who were trained in the art of electrical electronics, those who specialised in shoe making, those who chose acupuncture, and today its painting and Plaster of Paris (PoP).”

Addressing the youths earlier, Dangote Cement Ibese Plant Director, Mr. Roy Uttam, explained that the training initiative was a partnership between Dangote Cement Plc and the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), Abeokuta Area Office, and that it underscored the company’s commitment to socio-economic development in its host communities.

He reaffirmed the company’s dedication to corporate social responsibility, emphasising its focus on health, education, infrastructure, and empowerment. He noted that the Dangote Academy and various training programmes have continued to create employment opportunities and enhance skill acquisition among Nigerian youths.

Recognising the economic challenges facing the country, Uttam stressed the need for young people to embrace self-reliance through vocational skills.

He commended the thirty (30) graduates from the 17 host communities who successfully completed training in Plaster of Paris (PoP), screeding, and painting, urging them to utilise their newfound skills to build sustainable careers.

The trainees received start-up kits, including tools such as trowels, measuring tapes, and shovels, to aid them in establishing their businesses.