Dangote Cement Champions Youth Empowerment

Dangote Cement Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment and national development as it marked International Youth Day at its Obajana plant in Kogi State.

The company, speaking on the theme “Local Youth Action on SDG and Beyond,” stressed the need to equip young Nigerians with the skills, values, and opportunities required to drive sustainable social and economic progress.

Plant Director, Nawabuddin Azad, represented by General Manager, Social Performance, Ademola Adeyemi, said the firm’s policy aligns with the United Nations’ ideals on youth empowerment. “At our plant, we believe in shared value where business success goes hand-in-hand with social progress. We are committed to supporting initiatives that uplift communities and prepare the youth for the future,” he noted.

Chief General Manager and Head of Production, John Gwong, described Nigerian youths as the greatest national asset. He said their creativity and innovation are critical to both Dangote Cement’s growth and Nigeria’s future. “By mentoring young people, building their capacity, and exposing them to new technologies, we are investing in a stronger tomorrow,” he added.

Through initiatives such as graduate trainee schemes, internships, and community empowerment projects, the company has empowered hundreds of young people across host communities. Beneficiaries have been trained in poultry farming, solar entrepreneurship, fashion design, and other vocational skills, creating pathways for employment and self-reliance.

Head of Human Resources, Azeez Adeniyi, stressed that Dangote’s engagement goes beyond technical training to instill values such as discipline, teamwork, and integrity. Similarly, Wale Adedeji, Head of Technical at Dangote Academy, urged youths to embrace technology, innovation, and resilience to remain globally competitive.

Company officials collectively called on industries, governments, and communities to scale up youth development initiatives, warning that neglecting the sector could deepen unemployment and social challenges.

The celebration ended with a charge to Nigerian youths to embrace lifelong learning, innovation, and positive values, as stakeholders continue to build a future where young people are central to national prosperity.