The management of Dangote Cement’s Ibese Plant has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing its local content policy, aiming to stimulate the economies of its 17 host communities through skills development and increased business opportunities for local enterprises.

During a one-day capacity development workshop for local vendors, themed “Leveraging DCPI’s Processes and Procedures to Build Viable Local Businesses,” Acting Ibese Plant Director Johnson Michael expressed this commitment.

Since the plant’s establishment over a decade ago, Michael noted that the company has significantly impacted not only the host communities but also the wider Ogun State. He emphasised that Dangote Cement would continue to prioritise local autonomous businesses to enhance economic resilience within the state.

The workshop, held at the plant premises in Ibese, attracted numerous local service providers and suppliers from neighbouring communities. Michael explained that the event aimed to broaden vendors’ perspectives and deepen their understanding, thereby unlocking greater business opportunities, improving operational efficiency, and strengthening safety and security practices.

He noted that this initiative, the first of its kind at the Ibese Plant, is part of Dangote Cement Plc’s local content development strategy and reflects a strategic partnership with host communities to promote sustainable development and prosperity. The workshop was designed to equip participating vendors with the tools and insights necessary to thrive within and beyond the company’s ecosystem.

On behalf of the vendors, Deacon Segun Omoniyi from Abadom Commercial Enterprises expressed gratitude for Dangote Cement’s investment in upskilling and fostering the growth of local businesses. He assured that the knowledge gained would enhance service delivery and operational excellence at the plant.

The initiative saw effective collaboration among various departments, including Human Asset Management & Administration, Occupational Health, Safety and Environment, Procurement, Security Services, Stores, Finance & Accounts, and Social Performance.

Recently, the Ibese Plant also donated agricultural supplies to local farmers as part of a broader empowerment programme aimed at ensuring food security for the community. During the presentation, over 60 farmers from the 17 host communities received fertilizers, herbicides, and knapsack sprayers to assist them in the upcoming farming season. They also received training on “Integrated Pest Management and Crop Protection,” covering the application of the donated inputs as well as general pest management techniques.

The plant management noted that these donations are part of Dangote Cement’s Social Investment drive, which focuses on four key areas: Education, Health, Empowerment, and Infrastructure. They emphasised that the company’s community investments and their positive impacts on residents demonstrate Dangote Cement’s dedication to adding social value to its host communities.

According to the company, the initiative aims to enhance the productivity of participating farmers, strengthen food security, and boost revenue across the agricultural value chain in the host communities. “We hope that this intervention will positively impact the production of garri, fufu, and kokoro, which are staple foods in the area,” they added.