By George Edomwonyi
Dangote Cement PLC has empowered 240 indigents in Okpella community, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, as part of its social investment programme, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.
Under the initiative, 100 women received N100,000 each to support their businesses, 60 farmers were trained and provided with improved crops and farming tools, while 80 students in secondary and tertiary institutions received scholarships.
Speaking at the programme inauguration on Tuesday, Okpella Plant Director, Dr Ismaeel Mohammed, said the empowerment was part of the company’s five-year social investment plan targeting host communities.
Muhammed, represented by Financial Controller Dr Tanko Lawal, explained that the initiative fell under the Community Development Agreement (CDA), designed to support women, farmers, and students in Okpella and surrounding areas.
“This is a historic occasion in our journey of mutual development with the Okpella community.
“Two hundred and forty persons have been selected to benefit from this social intervention programme,” he said.
Director of Stakeholder Management, Mr Patrick Omokhagbon, noted that Dangote Cement was also undertaking other social projects, including road construction in Afokpella, installation of transformers, solar street lights, and boreholes.
Chief Peter Afiabor, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Host Community, commended Dangote Cement for the initiative and urged beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity.
He also called on community members to maintain the peaceful coexistence currently enjoyed with the company, ensuring continued mutual growth and development.
(NAN)
