In a significant show of corporate social responsibility, Dangote Cement Plc has expanded its scholarship program to include students from Oworoland in Lokoja Local Government Area, Kogi State.
The move, which goes beyond the company's traditional host communities, was celebrated at a scholarship award ceremony in Obajana on Monday.
The company's Plant Director, Azad Nawabuddin, explained that while the Oworo communities are not directly within its catchment area, Dangote Cement chose to extend its generosity to them through the support of the Oworo Development Association (ODA).
This partnership, he said, leverages the ODA's wider reach and credibility to ensure the scholarships reach deserving students.
Nawabuddin explained that this initiative, along with the provision of five boreholes in different Oworo communities, underscores the company's deep commitment to improving the welfare of the Oworo people.
He assured the community that Dangote Cement remains dedicated to sustaining and expanding its CSR programs across the district.
Mr Ademola Adeyemi, Dangote Cement's General Manager of Social Performance, provided details on the scholarship beneficiaries.
Out of the initial 50 students selected for the 2025/26 academic session, 26 are females and 24 are males.
Adeyemi emphasised the company's long-term commitment, stating, “As a policy, we will continue with each beneficiary until they complete their academic programmes, provided they can sustain their academic performance.”
He added that new beneficiaries would only be selected to replace those who complete their studies, ensuring a continuous cycle of support.
The selection process was a collaborative effort involving the Oworo Development Association and other key stakeholders, ensuring transparency and fairness.
“Today’s event is not just about financial support; it is about investing in the future of our community.
“These scholarships symbolise hope, opportunity, and the belief that every child, regardless of background, deserves a chance to pursue their dreams through education,” he said.
The gesture was met with widespread praise from community leaders and government representatives.
Alhaji Jibril Odoga Ibrahim, President of the Oworo Development Association, described the scholarship scheme as a “dream come true for Oworo people.”
He urged the beneficiaries to view the scholarship as a challenge to excel and make their community proud.
“The opportunity before you today is a seed; nurture it well so that one day you will give back to others,” he advised.
He also offered prayers for Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the founder of the Dangote Group, for his generosity.
The Kogi State Commissioner for Education, represented by the Acting Permanent Secretary, Mrs Omolayo Bilkisu, praised the collaboration between the public and private sectors, stating that the government is proud of the support Dangote Cement is providing through its educational and empowerment programs.
The Olu of Apata, Oba Federick Balogun, emphasised the importance of education as the strongest foundation for development.
He noted that the scholarship would ease the burden on parents, encourage students to work hard, and inspire hope.
Echoing this sentiment, Oba Ahmodu Umar Adoga, the Obaro of Ogbagon Community, expressed his gratitude, stating that “education opens doors of opportunities for the youth,” and declared that “Oworo communities will not be the same again.”
Victoria Temitope, a Councillor representing the Oworo ward in the Lokoja LGA Legislative House, also thanked the Dangote Group President for his support.
She challenged the scholarship recipients to make the most of the opportunity.
“I encourage you to study hard. Make the best use of it. Tomorrow, you will be the doctors, engineers, teachers, and leaders who will bring pride and progress back to the Oworo communities,” she urged.
The event concluded with a message of cooperation and a shared vision for a brighter future.
The Obas expressed hope that the bond between the company and the community would grow stronger for the benefit of all.
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