By Tamunoemi Briggs – Dangote Cement Plc has marked this year’s International Youth Day with a special programme at its Obajana plant in Kogi State, restating its commitment to youth empowerment, skills development, and sustainable growth.
The event, themed “Local Youth Action on SDG and Beyond,” highlighted the company’s alignment with the United Nations’ vision of equipping young people to drive social and economic development.
Speaking at the ceremony, Plant Director, Nawabuddin Azad—represented by the General Manager, Social Performance, Ademola Adeyemi—said Dangote Cement prioritises initiatives that combine business growth with community progress.
“We believe in creating shared value where business success goes hand in hand with social impact. Empowering the youth, uplifting communities, and promoting sustainability are central to our operations,” Azad noted.
Chief General Manager and Head of Production, John Gwong, described young people as Nigeria’s greatest asset. He stressed that their innovation and energy are vital to building the country’s future.
“At Dangote Cement, we see youth as the backbone of society. By mentoring them, building capacity, and exposing them to new technologies, we are shaping a generation that will sustain both our company and the nation,” Gwong said.
The company highlighted several initiatives aimed at youth development, including its graduate trainee scheme, internship programmes, and vocational projects in host communities. Hundreds of young people have benefitted from skill-building in areas such as poultry farming, solar entrepreneurship, and fashion design.
Head of Human Resources, Azeez Adeniyi, emphasised the need to instill values of discipline, teamwork, and integrity in young people, while Wale Adedeji, Head of Technical at Dangote Academy, urged youths to embrace innovation and adaptability.
“The future belongs to those who can create opportunities, not just seek them. Resilience, curiosity, and problem-solving are the keys to staying competitive,” Adedeji said.
Officials warned that failure to invest in youth empowerment could deepen unemployment and social unrest, underscoring the need for collective action from government, industry, and communities.
The event ended with a call on Nigerian youths to embrace lifelong learning and positive values, while stakeholders were urged to sustain mentorship and empowerment programmes as part of nation-building efforts.
