By Sunday Etuka, Abuja
The leading Cement Manufacturing Company in Africa, Dangote Cement Plc, said, it places premium on community engagement, empowerment, and environmental stewardship to sustain its upward trajectory.
Dangote Cement in a statement on Monday said, it believed that true progress is measured not only by economic prosperity but also by the holistic development of all stakeholders.
The Plant Director of Dangote Cement Plc Obajana, Mr. Azad Nawabuddin, was quoted to have disclosed this during a media chat in Obajana.
He said that the relationship between Dangote Cement and its host communities and other stakeholders transcends transactional exchanges as it was built on a foundation of trust, mutual respect, and shared aspirations.
“The communities in which we operate are not just beneficiaries; they are our partners in progress,” he affirmed.
While reaffirming the company’s commitment to its host communities, Nawabuddin, who recently moved from the Ibese plant, emphasized that the company would collaborate with key stakeholders in Obajana to implement impactful projects.
He said crucial to the vision is the empowerment of residents through skills development and capacity-building initiatives. “We recognize the importance of equipping community members with the requisite skills to thrive in today’s competitive landscape,” Nawabuddin asserted.
The Dangote Cement boss said this will enhance employability and foster entrepreneurship among youth and women in the host communities.
With a steadfast commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainable development, Nawabuddin outlined initiatives to strengthen the bond between Dangote Cement and the communities. He emphasized that the company views its host communities as partners.
“In terms of community engagement, we will hold meetings to explore avenues for supporting them, including opportunities for businesses and contracts. The communities are integral partners for us. Through dialogue with them, we aim to execute significant projects that will bring them lasting benefits,” he stated.
Nawabuddin also stressed the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainable practices in Dangote Cement’s operations. “We are custodians of the environment, and it is our duty to ensure that our activities leave a positive impact on the ecosystem,” he added.
Nawabuddin explained that in addition to socio-economic development is the importance of addressing security concerns in the host communities. He said through collaborative efforts with law enforcement agencies and community-based initiatives, security risks will be mitigated, and the well-being of residents will be upheld.
“We are working closely with local authorities and community leaders to enhance security measures and create a safe and conducive environment for all,” he added.
