There was excitement on Wednesday in Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State as Dangote Cement Plc rolled out a series of multi-million-naira empowerment programmes targeting farmers, women, and youths across its six host communities.
The initiative attracted jubilant crowds, with women singing and dancing, farmers celebrating improved support prospects, and youth groups expressing optimism over new skills development opportunities. The programme is designed to strengthen livelihoods, boost agricultural output, and promote small-scale enterprise growth in the area.
The intervention covers Tse-Kucha, Quarry, Amua, Mbazembe, Mbatur, and Pass Brothers communities. Under the scheme, 150 women will receive cash grants to expand their businesses, 52 farmers will be supported with agricultural inputs, and 30 youths will undergo vocational training aimed at improving employability and entrepreneurship.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, commended the initiative, describing it as a strong example of private-sector contribution to national development.
Represented by Mrs. Usman Adijatu, he said such interventions complement government efforts to reduce poverty and promote inclusive economic growth.
He urged beneficiaries to use the support wisely, stressing that the resources provided should serve as a foundation for long-term self-reliance rather than short-term consumption.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Wakeel Olayiwola, Head of Social Performance, Pan-African Operations at Dangote Cement Plc, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to its Community Development Agreement (CDA) with host communities. He explained that the programme was jointly designed with community stakeholders to ensure transparency and impact.
He noted that the six communities have maintained a peaceful relationship with the company, enabling consistent implementation of development projects. He also praised the CDA Consultative Committee for ensuring a fair and credible selection process for beneficiaries.
The Plant Director of Dangote Cement Gboko Plant, Engr. Abhijit Dutta, described host communities as “partners in progress,” stressing that industrial growth must go hand in hand with community development. He said the current initiative forms part of a five-year CDA framework launched in 2025.
He further disclosed that a scholarship programme for students from the host communities will soon be introduced, while several ongoing projects under the agreement are expected to be completed this year. He added that over 230 people benefited from similar empowerment schemes last year.
Traditional leadership also commended the initiative. HRH Gabriel Shosum, the Ter Gboko, praised the company’s sustained commitment to community welfare, describing its interventions as impactful and commendable. He assured continued cooperation from the traditional institution and urged residents to maintain peace to attract further development.
The company linked the initiative to the broader vision of its President and Chief Executive, Aliko Dangote, noting that improving the welfare of host communities remains a key pillar of the Dangote Group’s social investment strategy.
The programme ended with renewed commitments from both the company and community leaders to strengthen collaboration, promote stability, and expand economic opportunities across Gboko communities.
