Dangote Cement Plc’s fish farming initiative has created new employment opportunities for young Nigerians while contributing to the country’s economic development.
The comprehensive training programme has empowered 40 beneficiaries with skills in fish farming and entrepreneurship.
The graduation ceremony, attended by representatives of the Federal Government, the Kogi State Government, and other stakeholders, marked a significant milestone in the company’s efforts to promote self-sufficiency and sustainable livelihoods within its host communities.
According to the Plant Director, Mr. Azad Nawabuddin, the skills acquisition programme is a strategic initiative aimed at fostering job creation and driving broader economic growth.
“You nurture, you wait, you adapt, and, in time, you harvest. This mirrors the journey of community development itself: it is not built in a day, but through consistent effort, shared knowledge, and collective commitment,” Mr. Nawabuddin said.
He added that fish farming has the potential to generate a ripple effect by providing food for families, income for households, and opportunities for wider community participation.
The General Manager and Head of the Social Performance Department at Dangote Cement Plc, Obajana, Mr. Ademola Adeyemi, emphasised that the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes are designed to deliver lasting impact.
“We invest proactively in skills, in people, and in ideas that can uplift communities,” he said.
Representatives of the Kogi State Government, as well as traditional rulers, commended Dangote Cement Plc for its sustained commitment to community development.
Hon. Akinola Babatunde, representative of the Technical Adviser on CSR to the Kogi State Governor, praised the President of the Dangote Group, Mr. Aliko Dangote, for his continued support for communities in the state.
The beneficiaries, most of whom are women, were drawn from the host communities of Iwaa, Oyo, Obajana, and Apata. They are expected to apply the skills acquired to improve their livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to the economic development of their communities.
The Bajana of Obajana, HRH Idowu Isenibi, urged the graduates to extend the knowledge gained to others and build sustainable enterprises.
“Let this not end here. As you grow, carry others along. Teach your brothers, support your sisters, and build enterprises that will uplift our communities,” he said.
