- Dangote Cement trained and graduated 46 solar energy installers and entrepreneurs from Kogi State communities as part of its CSR initiative.
- The program, in partnership with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF), equips participants with skills to boost renewable energy capacity and create jobs in Nigeria.
- Group President Aliko Dangote remains committed to empowering youth and supporting national development through sustainable energy solutions.
Dangote Cement Plc has trained and graduated 46 solar energy installers and entrepreneurs as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program. The training took place at the Dangote Academy in Obajana, aiming to enhance socio-economic empowerment while promoting sustainable development in Nigeria.
During the graduation ceremony, Azad Nawabuddin, Plant Director of Dangote Cement Plc, Obajana, announced that the new graduates are ready to impact Nigeria’s renewable energy sector. He explained that Group President Aliko Dangote remains committed to youth empowerment and job creation and added that this initiative helps communities access electricity. Engr. John Gwong, Head of the Production Department, represented Nawabuddin and described the training as a rare opportunity that will offer long-term benefits.
Mr Wakeel Olayiwola, Head of Social Performance at Dangote Cement, highlighted how this program supports the government’s efforts to provide electricity to millions of Nigerians. He explained that the initiative will expand the country’s solar energy capacity while creating jobs. The General Manager of Community Affairs and Special Duties, Mr Ademola Adeyemi, emphasised that Dangote Cement uses the initiative to give back to society.
The 46 beneficiaries include 27 men and 19 women from Kogi State communities such as Obajana, Oyo, Iwata, and Apata. The company partnered with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) to deliver the training, which equips participants with the skills needed to thrive in Nigeria’s growing solar energy market.
Engr. Abdulrahman Shehu Wudilawa, Training Manager at ITF in Kogi State, called the solar energy sector one of Nigeria’s most profitable industries. He urged the graduates to seize the opportunities available in renewable energy and maximise their newly acquired skills.
HRH Idowu Isenibi, the Bajana of Obajana, praised Aliko Dangote for his patriotism and vision for national development. He also commended Dangote Cement for its commitment to empowering young Nigerians through solar energy training. Representatives from Apata, Iwata, and Oyo communities shared their gratitude, noting how the initiative will positively affect their regions.
This solar energy training aligns with Dangote Cement’s broader commitment to sustainable development and its contribution to Nigeria’s renewable energy goals. The company views the initiative as a way to reduce electricity shortages in rural areas while offering employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for young people.
Dangote Cement supports long-term solutions that empower communities and drive national development. By providing practical solar installation skills, the company enables graduates to find employment or become entrepreneurs in the renewable energy sector.
The company’s focus on renewable energy reflects its commitment to promoting economic growth and environmental sustainability in Nigeria. This solar training program addresses the nation’s energy needs and equips participants with valuable skills that can generate income and improve their livelihoods.