Dangote Cement PLC has rolled out a major empowerment programme for 240 indigent residents of Okpella community in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, as part of its ongoing social investment plan.
The initiative, unveiled on Tuesday, provided direct support to women, farmers, and students in the host community. According to the company, 100 women received N100,000 each to boost their businesses, 60 farmers were trained and equipped with improved crops and modern farming tools, while 80 students in secondary and tertiary institutions were awarded scholarships.
Speaking at the inauguration, Okpella Plant Director, Dr. Ismaeel Mohammed, described the programme as a milestone in Dangote Cement’s five-year social investment plan. Represented by Financial Controller, Dr. Tanko Lawal, Mohammed explained that the initiative was anchored on the Community Development Agreement (CDA), which prioritises empowerment and sustainable growth in host communities.
“This is a historic occasion in our journey of mutual development with the Okpella community. Two hundred and forty persons have been selected to benefit from this social intervention programme,” Mohammed said.
Director of Stakeholder Management, Mr. Patrick Omokhagbon, highlighted other projects being undertaken by the company, including:
- Road construction in Afokpella
- Installation of electricity transformers
- Provision of solar-powered street lights
- Borehole projects to improve access to clean water
He noted that these interventions reflect Dangote Cement’s commitment to improving infrastructure and living standards in its host communities.
Chief Peter Afiabor, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Host Community, commended Dangote Cement for the initiative and urged beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity.
He also called on residents to sustain the peaceful coexistence currently enjoyed with the company, stressing that mutual growth and development depend on collaboration between the community and investors.