Dangote Cement Launches Multi-Million Naira Empowerment Scheme for Benue Host Communities

By Ladan Nasidi

Residents of six host communities of Dangote Cement Plc in Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State erupted in celebration on Wednesday as the company unveiled a fresh round of multi-million naira empowerment programmes targeting women, farmers and youths.

The initiative, launched under the company’s Community Development Agreement (CDA), is expected to benefit residents of Tse-Kucha, Quarry, Amua, Mbazembe, Mbatur and Pass Brothers communities through business grants, agricultural support and vocational training.

Under the programme, 150 women will receive cash grants to boost their businesses, 52 farmers will be supported with agricultural inputs to improve productivity, while 30 youths will undergo vocational and skills acquisition training in partnership with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF).

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, commended Dangote Cement for sustaining investments in the development of its host communities and supporting the Federal Government’s drive for inclusive economic growth.

Represented at the event by Mrs. Usman Adijatu, the minister said the company’s interventions continue to make meaningful social and economic impacts in Benue State and across Nigeria.

According to him, Dangote Cement’s community-focused initiatives complement government efforts aimed at reducing poverty, creating sustainable livelihoods and improving living standards in mining and industrial communities.

He urged beneficiaries to make productive use of the grants, agricultural inputs and vocational training opportunities, stressing that the support should serve as a foundation for long-term economic empowerment and self-reliance.

Speaking at the event, the Head of Social Performance, Pan-African Operations at Dangote Cement Plc, Mr. Wakeel Olayiwola, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to impactful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes developed in collaboration with host communities and government stakeholders.

He described the six host communities as peaceful and supportive, adding that the cordial relationship has enabled the successful implementation of several development initiatives over the years.

Mr. Olayiwola also praised members of the CDA Consultative Committee for ensuring a transparent and credible beneficiary selection process.

The Plant Director of Dangote Cement Gboko Plant, Engr. Abhijit Dutta, said the empowerment programme forms part of the company’s broader strategy to improve livelihoods in communities where it operates.

“Our host communities are not just neighbours; they are valued partners in progress,” he said.

According to him, the initiative is anchored on a five-year Community Development Agreement which commenced in 2025 and is designed to ensure that all six host communities benefit from the company’s social investment programmes.

He noted that the interventions were specifically designed to promote self-reliance, reduce poverty and create sustainable economic opportunities for residents.

Mr. Dutta further disclosed that Dangote Cement plans to introduce a scholarship scheme for students from the host communities in the coming months.

He said the President and Chief Executive of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, remains committed to improving the welfare of communities hosting the company’s operations nationwide.

He revealed that more than 230 people benefitted from similar empowerment programmes last year, adding that the company intends to sustain the initiative throughout the duration of the current CDA.

The company also disclosed that several community projects under the agreement are already ongoing, while outstanding projects are expected to be completed before the end of the year.

Dangote Cement thanked traditional rulers, youth groups and community leaders for maintaining peaceful relations with the company, noting that sustained cooperation would continue to drive development and shared prosperity in the area.

Also speaking, the Ter Gboko, HRH Gabriel Shosum, commended Dangote Cement for its continued commitment to the welfare and development of the Gboko communities.

The royal father described the company’s interventions as impactful and beneficial to the people, while assuring the management of the communities’ continued support and cooperation.

He urged residents to sustain peace and continue supporting the company in order to attract more development initiatives to the area.