Lafarge Africa Plc has reinforced its commitment to gender inclusion with the graduation of 17 female truck drivers under its Women-on-Wheels (WoW) initiative.
The graduation ceremony, held on Wednesday at the Lafarge Driving Institute in Ewekoro, Ogun State, marks another milestone in the company’s efforts to foster diversity in Nigeria’s transport and logistics sector.
The event drew key stakeholders, including government officials, representatives from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and industry leaders.
Speaking at the ceremony, Lafarge Africa’s Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, described the programme as a game-changer in the logistics industry.
“At Lafarge Africa, we are constantly investing in critical areas that will enable women to thrive.
“The Women-on-Wheels programme has successfully integrated certified female truck drivers into our logistics value chain,” Alade-Akinyemi stated.
Lafarge Africa’s Logistics Director, Osaze Aghatise, highlighted the broader impact of the initiative, noting that it promotes gender equality and ensures safe and efficient road transport.
“With every batch of female drivers we train, we are expanding opportunities for women and improving road safety in Nigeria,” he said.
Ogun State’s Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Honourable Adijat Adeleye-Oladapo, commended the initiative as a significant step toward economic empowerment and gender equality.
Similarly, the Commissioner for Industry, Trade & Investment, Mr. Adebola Sofela, represented by Director of Geological Services, Olalekan Eniolawun, praised Lafarge Africa for opening new opportunities for women in the logistics industry.
Federal Road Safety Corps Sector Commander, Akinwumi Fasakin, lauded the graduates for their resilience and commitment.
He described them as role models who will inspire more women to take up careers in transport.
Among the graduates, Shotayo Olajumoke, Adibe Favour, and Yaya Rukayat Olabisi were recognised as the best-performing trainees.
Expressing her excitement, Adibe Favour stated, “This opportunity has transformed my life. I am proud to be part of this pioneering initiative, proving that women can thrive in the transport industry.”
Since its launch in 2019, the Women-on-Wheels programme has trained and certified over 100 female truck drivers.
With 36 female drivers currently in Lafarge’s workforce, the initiative continues to break barriers.
An additional 30 women are set to graduate from the Calabar training centre in April, further advancing gender diversity in the industry.
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