Dangote Cement Plc has urged stronger collaboration between industries, government, and communities to address Nigeria’s pressing youth unemployment challenge. The call was made during the company’s International Youth Day event at its Obajana plant in Kogi State.
Speaking at the event, Plant Director Nawabuddin Azad, represented by General Manager of Social Performance Ademola Adeyemi, highlighted the company’s commitment to youth empowerment initiatives aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The event also showcased local empowerment programs aimed at skill acquisition in poultry farming, solar entrepreneurship, and fashion design, equipping young people with tools to create jobs and foster self-reliance within their communities.
Azad noted,
“At our plant, we believe in shared values where business success goes together with social progress. We are committed to supporting initiatives that empower the youth, uplift communities, and promote sustainable practices.”
Chief General Manager and Head of Production John Gwong described youth as the greatest assets of any nation, emphasizing their creativity, energy, and innovation as critical to Nigeria’s future.
“By mentoring them, building their capacity, and exposing them to new technologies, we are preparing a generation that will secure the growth of both our company and our nation,” he said.
Head of Human Resources Azeez Adeniyi emphasized that youth engagement goes beyond technical training to include ethics, teamwork, and responsibility, while Wale Adedeji, Head of Technical at Dangote Academy, encouraged young people to embrace technology, innovation, and adaptability.
Dangote Cement also highlighted initiatives such as graduate trainee schemes, internships, and community empowerment projects, which have equipped hundreds of young people and built a skilled workforce pipeline for the company.
Officials concluded by stressing that industries, governments, and communities must create platforms to empower youth, warning that neglecting youth development could worsen unemployment and social challenges.
Through these initiatives, Dangote Cement demonstrates that youth are not only Nigeria’s future but already key contributors to industrial growth and innovation.
