Dangote Cement Plc, Ibese Plant, has reinforced its commitment to food security and Sustainable Community development with the roll-out of its 2026 annual farmers’ empowerment initiative.
This year’s empowerment initiative saw 60 selected farmers being provided free agricultural inputs and capacity-building training to farmers drawn from its 17 host communities.
The programme, which has become a cornerstone of the company’s social investment strategy, saw beneficiaries receive modern farming inputs alongside technical training aimed at improving crop yield, productivity, and income across the agricultural value chain.
Each of the 60 benefitting farmers received three bags of 50kg NPK fertilizer; Two bags of Urea fertilizer; One Knapsack sprayer and Ten litres of Force-Up herbicide.
Welcoming the guests and beneficiaries, the Plant Director, Ayyagari Subbaraidu emphasized that the programme was designed not only to support local farmers but to build a sustainable agricultural ecosystem within the company’s host communities.
He noted that the intervention aligns with Dangote Cement’s broader corporate social responsibility priorities, which include empowerment, education, health, and infrastructure development.
He said the programme was meant to provide Dangote Cement’s support to “men and women whose labour sustains our food systems and contributes immensely to the well-being of our communities, and the society at large therefore aligns with the yearnings of Government.
“Your presence despite the public holiday reflects your commitment to agricultural development and the prosperity of our communities.
“At Dangote Cement, we understand that while we manufacture cement for the construction of homes, schools, hospitals, roads, and other critical infrastructure, true development is ultimately about people.
“It is about creating opportunities, improving livelihoods, and enabling communities to thrive.
“This philosophy remains at the heart of our operations and our relationship with our host communities.
“This marks the fifth consecutive edition of our Farmers Empowerment Programme at Ibese Plant.
“It represents five years of consistent engagement, meaningful investment, and a shared commitment to improving livelihoods across our host communities.
“The initiative has evolved into one of the most impactful interventions under our community development efforts.
“To date, 300 farmers across our host communities have benefited from training, farm inputs, and agricultural tools.
“Together, the beneficiaries have cultivated more than 800 acres of farmland and produced over 40,000 tons of agricultural output.
“These figures tell an important story, representing families whose livelihoods have improved, children whose educational needs have been supported, businesses that have grown, and communities that have become more resilient.
“They demonstrate what can be achieved when communities and corporate organizations work together toward a common goal.”
According to him, the free distribution of farming inputs, including fertilizers, herbicides, and other essential tools, is a deliberate effort to reduce the burden on farmers and equip them with the resources needed for modern agricultural practices.
“We provide modern farm inputs to support our farmers to enhance productivity and achieve better yields.
“This is not just about distribution; it is about enabling a shift to more efficient and sustainable farming methods that will ultimately boost food production and livelihoods,” he said.
He further explained that the training component of the programme is critical in ensuring that beneficiaries maximize the value of the inputs provided.
“Participants were taken through practical sessions on good agricultural practices, including crop protection and pest management techniques, equipping them with knowledge to mitigate farming risks and improve output,” he said.
The event also featured remarks by representatives of the host communities, who commended Dangote Cement for its consistent investment in grassroots development.
Speaking on behalf of the communities, a representative described the programme as a “game changer” that has not only boosted food production but also strengthened the relationship between the company and its host communities.
In their responses, beneficiaries of the programme expressed profound appreciation for the intervention, describing it as timely and impactful, especially in the face of rising input costs and climate-related farming challenges.
One of the farmers, Mr Akanbi Moses from Aga-Olowo Community noted that the provision of free inputs and training has significantly improved their productivity and income levels, enabling them to scale their farming activities.
Another beneficiary highlighted how the training sessions have enhanced their understanding of modern farming techniques, resulting in better crop management and reduced post-harvest losses.
Also speaking, Chairman of Yewa North Local Government, who was represented at the event by Hon. Segun Ableto, lauded the initiative, describing it as a model of effective public-private partnership in driving rural development.
The representative commended Dangote Cement for complementing government efforts in boosting agricultural production and enhancing food security within the region.
He encouraged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the inputs and knowledge acquired, stressing that the success of the programme ultimately depends on their commitment to applying the training in their farming activities.
Chairman, Communities Joint Consultative Committee, Comrade Dayo Ogunyinka expressed the appreciation of the people to the management of Dangote Cement for sustaining the initiative, which has become a major support system for farmers across our communities.
He said : “This programme has continued to improve the lives of our people.
“It has strengthened our farmers’ capacity and deepened the relationship between Dangote Cement and our communities.”
Industry observers have noted that Dangote Cement’s farmers’ empowerment initiative has consistently contributed to stimulating local economies, creating opportunities for farmers, and strengthening food systems in host communities.
The programme forms part of Dangote Cement’s Community Development Agreement (CDA), which underscores its commitment to fostering socio-economic development and maintaining harmonious relationships with its host communities through targeted and impactful interventions.
Over the years, the Ibese Plant has continued to roll out various empowerment initiatives for different segments of the population, including youths, women, and artisans, reinforcing its philosophy that host communities remain key partners in progress. (vitalnewsngr.com)
