Lafarge Africa Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment by graduating 40 women from its Female Tilers and Block Making Training Program. This initiative is part of the company’s broader corporate social responsibility efforts aimed at equipping women from underserved communities with valuable skills to succeed in the construction industry, a sector traditionally dominated by men.
Over the course of four weeks, the participants received hands-on training in tiling and block making, using Lafarge Africa’s flagship products, Supafix and Supaset. The program was designed to break down gender barriers and promote gender inclusivity within the construction sector.
At the graduation ceremony held in Lagos, Lafarge Africa’s CEO, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, emphasized the program’s transformative impact, stating, “Your expertise and mentorship have shaped the remarkable transformation we see in these women today.” He encouraged the graduates to use their new skills to inspire others and assured them that Lafarge Africa would continue supporting their success. “Lafarge Africa stands behind you as you embark on your journey toward success,” he affirmed.
Viola Graham-Douglas, Director of Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainable Development at Lafarge Africa, spoke on the program’s broader community impact, saying, “By equipping these women with valuable skills, we are contributing to the growth of not only their careers but also their communities. They are pioneers, and their success will inspire others to follow in their footsteps.”
Feyishayo Alayande, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), praised Lafarge’s efforts, stating, “This graduation embodies the spirit of ‘Breaking Barriers,’ showing that women can thrive in traditionally male-dominated fields.” She also commended the company for its dedication to empowering women with the skills needed for success, aligning with LSETF’s mission to foster workforce inclusion and create meaningful employment opportunities.
Mobolaji Ogunlende, Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, expressed his support for Lafarge’s empowerment initiatives, saying, “We are eager to work with Lafarge to reach more young women.” He also announced recent approvals for renovation projects that would provide graduates with the practical experience needed to make a real impact in the industry.
Jamiu Alli Balogun, Commissioner for Basic Education, Lagos State, encouraged the graduates, saying, “The skills you have gained will empower not only yourselves but also your communities.” Mrs. Oreoluwa Awokoya, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on SDG, urged the graduates to support each other through a social media group, emphasizing collaboration and professionalism as they begin their careers.
Upon graduation, the participants were enrolled in the Block Makers and Tilers Association of Nigeria, which will provide them with access to a professional network to help ease their entry into the workforce. This milestone represents a significant step toward gender equality in the construction industry and the continued empowerment of women across Nigeria.
