Dangote Cement Plc has launched a landmark Farmers Empowerment Programme in Benue State, aimed at transforming 50 local farmers into agricultural entrepreneurs and boosting food production in Nigeria’s food basket region.
The initiative, launched on Thursday in Gboko Local Government Area, marks a significant step in the company’s continued commitment to sustainable community development.
It comes just two months after Dangote Cement empowered women in the area with business grants and significantly increased bursary payments for students in host communities.
Speaking at the event, Johnson Kor, General Manager of Social Performance, described the programme as both historic and innovative.
He noted that the beneficiaries were carefully selected from the six catchment areas of Gboko LGA, all within the company’s host communities.
“Today we are witnessing an historic occasion in our journey of mutual development. This Farmers Empowerment Programme is the first initiative being implemented since we signed the Community Development Agreement (CDA) with our host communities in December 2024, ”Kor said.
He emphasised that the projects listed in the CDA are already being executed progressively, with more planned to enhance economic resilience and livelihood opportunities.
Also speaking, the Plant Director of Dangote Cement, Gboko Plant, Mr Munusamy Murugan, represented by the Head of Production, Engr Soom Kiishi, announced that the company would provide beneficiaries with essential agricultural inputs including fertilizers, agrochemicals, knapsack sprayers, and a variety of seedlings.
“This is the first batch, but it’s just the beginning. We intend to make this an annual event, though the choice of agricultural projects may evolve based on the needs of the communities,” Murugan said.
He further revealed that a Youth Empowerment Programme would soon follow, offering professional training in Welding & Fabrication and Solar Electrical Installation.
Consultant from Abbass Corporate Services, Dr Ahemen Aondoaver Samuel, urged the beneficiaries to seize the rare opportunity provided by the company, stating that the initiative could transform them into full-fledged entrepreneurs while supporting Nigeria’s food security goals.
A grateful community member, Kwaghgba Isaac, hailed the programme as a historic and huge intervention, adding that it would elevate subsistence farming and contribute meaningfully to the nation's food supply.
He also called on residents to continue fostering peaceful relations with the company, describing the initiative as a true testament to responsible corporate partnership.
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