By Modupe Gbadeyanka
To stimulate the economies of its 17 host communities, the Dangote Cement Ibese Plant in Ogun State has held a capacity development workshop for vendors in the areas.
The event themed Leveraging DCPI’s Processes and Procedures to Build Viable Local Businesses, was to enhance the skills of the participants and increase business opportunities for local enterprises.
One of the participants, Mr Segun Omoniyi from Abadom Commercial Enterprises, commended Dangote Cement for the 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.
On his part, the acting Director of Dangote Cement Ibese Plant, Mr Johnson Michael, noted that since its establishment over a decade ago, 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.
According to him, the workshop was 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’s local content development strategy and reflects a strategic partnership with host communities to promote sustainable development and prosperity.
Mr Michael said the workshop was designed to equip participating vendors with the tools and insights necessary to thrive within and beyond the company’s ecosystem.
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.