Dangote Cement Plc, Obajana plant, has graduated about 40 participants from its host communities following an intensive training programme in fish farming and entrepreneurship.
The graduation ceremony, held in Obajana, was attended by representatives of the Federal Government, Industrial Training Fund, the Kogi State Government, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders.
The beneficiaries, largely women, were drawn from communities including Iwaa, Oyo, Obajana, and Apata. The initiative builds on previous empowerment programmes by the company, such as training in poultry farming, solar entrepreneurship, and fashion design.
Plant Director, Azad Nawabuddin, described the programme as a strategic effort to promote job creation and economic growth at the grassroots level.
“In learning fish farming, you embrace responsibility and patience. It mirrors community development — built over time through effort and shared commitment,” he said.
He noted that fish farming extends beyond individual benefits, creating opportunities across value chains, including feed supply, transportation, processing, and market distribution.
General Manager and Head of Social Performance, Ademola Adeyemi, said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to sustainable Corporate Social Responsibility.
“We invest in skills, people, and ideas that uplift communities. Our partnership with the Industrial Training Fund ensures our interventions are impactful and sustainable,” Adeyemi stated.
He added that the programme is designed to reduce dependence on white-collar jobs by promoting self-reliance and entrepreneurship among community members.
Stakeholders at the event commended the initiative. A representative of the Kogi State Government praised the President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, for his continued support for host communities.
Traditional rulers, including the Bajana of Obajana, urged beneficiaries to extend the knowledge gained to others, fostering wider economic empowerment within their communities.
The Industrial Training Fund also confirmed that participants were provided with starter packs, including juvenile fish and feed, to help them launch their businesses immediately after the training.
Speaking on behalf of the participants, Mrs Regina Idowu described the programme as life-changing, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to acquire skills that can improve livelihoods.
The initiative highlights Dangote Cement’s ongoing role in community development, positioning local empowerment as a key driver of sustainable growth and economic resilience in its host communities.
