Dangote Cement Plc has launched a Skills and Jobs Initiative at its Obajana plant in Kogi State, aimed at creating employment opportunities and equipping young Nigerians with practical skills. The program is designed to support youths from the company’s host communities, helping them gain the training and experience needed to secure jobs and start businesses.
Speaking on the theme “Local Youth Action on SDG and Beyond,” Plant Director Nawabuddin Azad, represented by General Manager, Social Performance, Ademola Adeyemi, said the initiative aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. He explained that Dangote Cement’s goal is to provide structured opportunities that enable young people to develop skills, find employment, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
The program has already reached hundreds of youths through graduate trainee schemes that prepare fresh graduates for professional roles, internship programs that provide hands-on experience across the company, and vocational projects in areas such as poultry farming, solar energy ventures, and fashion design. These initiatives are aimed at equipping participants with the knowledge and tools to pursue both employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Chief General Manager and Head of Production, John Gwong, described young people as Nigeria’s greatest asset, emphasizing that mentoring and providing access to technology and skills are essential to preparing a workforce that can support both Dangote Cement and national growth. Head of Human Resources, Azeez Adeniyi, added that the company places importance not only on technical training but also on values such as ethics, teamwork, and responsibility, which are crucial for shaping capable professionals.
Wale Adedeji, Head of Technical at Dangote Academy, stressed that the program encourages youths to adapt to change and embrace innovation, preparing them to create jobs and thrive in a rapidly evolving economy.
Through this Skills and Jobs Initiative, Dangote Cement continues to provide meaningful employment and entrepreneurial opportunities, building a skilled workforce and supporting sustainable livelihoods in its host communities.
