In a fresh demonstration of its commitment to local capacity building and sustainable community engagement, Dangote Cement Plc., Ibese Plant, has conducted its 2025 annual capacity development training for leaders and representatives of its host communities in Ogun State.
Themed “Engagement and Advocacy Skills: Critical Tools for Community Representatives,” the training was held at the company’s Ibese Plant and drew participants from Yewa North and Ewekoro Local Government Areas.
Over 50 community stakeholders including youth and women leaders, as well as government officials, took part in the workshop aimed at equipping them with effective communication, negotiation, and advocacy skills.
Declaring the event open, Mr. Aina Olugbenga, General Manager, Human Asset Management and Administration at Dangote Cement, commended the participants for their consistent dedication to peace and progress in their various communities.
He urged them to channel the knowledge and strategies acquired into strengthening relations between the communities and the company.
“This training is not just about learning but about building mutual growth. We encourage our community partners to use these tools to advance collective prosperity,” Olugbenga stated.
Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Ololade Akiyode, Director of Community Development, Yewa North Local Government, described the relationship between the Ibese Plant and its host communities as a model of corporate-community partnership.
“This is an example of sustainable development driven by genuine engagement and mutual respect,” she said.
Hon. Dayo Ogunyinka, speaking on behalf of the participants, lauded the company for its continued support and reaffirmed the community’s commitment to dialogue, peacebuilding, and inclusive development.
“We appreciate this opportunity and will use the knowledge gained to promote harmony and responsible representation in our communities,” Ogunyinka pledged.
The capacity training forms part of Dangote Cement’s broader community development initiatives, which over the years have included skills acquisition, youth empowerment, economic support programmes, and scholarships for indigent but brilliant students.
Programmes run by the Ibese Plant cover practical areas such as domestic electrical installation, catering, tailoring, and more — all aimed at reducing unemployment and poverty, while improving living standards in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Beyond economic empowerment, the company has invested significantly in leadership development, conflict resolution training, and the provision of start-up tools to ensure trained youths become self-reliant entrepreneurs.
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