By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
Dangote Cement Plc has further solidified its commitment to socio-economic empowerment and sustainable development in Nigeria by training and graduating 46 solar energy installers and entrepreneurs in Kogi State.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, held at the Dangote Academy in Obajana, the Plant Director of Dangote Cement Plc, Azad Nawabuddin, emphasized that the new graduates are poised to make significant contributions to Nigeria’s renewable energy sector. He also highlighted the passion of Group President Aliko Dangote for youth empowerment, which aligns with the government’s efforts to provide jobs and support community development. Nawabuddin expressed confidence that this initiative would play a key role in expanding electricity access across Nigeria.
“This gesture is a continuation of our commitment to socio-economic empowerment and sustainable development in Nigeria,” Nawabuddin said.
The ceremony was attended by the Head of Production Department, Engr. John Gwong, who represented Nawabuddin. Gwong described the training as a “rare opportunity” and a “futuristic meal ticket” for the graduates.
Support for Renewable Energy
The Head of Social Performance at Dangote Cement, Mr. Wakeel Olayiwola, who was represented by Mr. Olusegun Olojede, stated that the new solar energy experts and entrepreneurs would significantly contribute to the government’s power supply efforts, ultimately benefiting millions of Nigerians.
Mr. Ademola Adeyemi, General Manager of Community Affairs and Special Duties at Dangote Cement, explained that the empowerment initiative is part of the company’s effort to give back to society. He revealed that the 46 beneficiaries, comprising 27 men and 19 women, came from the communities of Obajana, Oyo, Iwaa, and Apata in Kogi State. The training was conducted in collaboration with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF).
A Bright Future for Solar Energy
Engr. Abdulrahman Shehu Wudilawa, the Training Manager at ITF Kogi State, noted that the beneficiaries were fortunate to be part of one of the most lucrative sectors of the Nigerian economy—solar technology. He emphasized that Nigeria’s abundant sunlight makes it an ideal location for solar energy installation.
Wudilawa further highlighted the environmental benefits of solar energy, stating, “Solar energy generation produces no greenhouse gas emissions or air pollutants, significantly reducing the carbon footprint compared to traditional energy sources like coal or natural gas. It also helps combat climate change.”
Acknowledgement of Dangote Cement’s Contributions
The Bajana of Obajana, HRH Idowu Isenibi, commended the Group President of Dangote Cement for his foresight and dedication to the development of Nigeria.
On behalf of the other graduates, Miss Ramata Ahmed and Master Abraham Samson expressed gratitude to Dangote Cement’s management for providing them with the opportunity to acquire valuable skills. They promised to utilize their new knowledge to improve their lives, their communities, and the nation.
