Dangote Cement Plc, Okpella Plant has awarded scholarships worth over N32 million to 80 students from its host communities in Edo State, in further demonstration of its commitment to sustainable community development.
The scholarship award ceremony in Okpella, also featured the commissioning of four 500KVA transformers to improve power supply in the area. The event attracted traditional leaders, community representatives, youth groups, students, parents, government officials and senior officials of the company.
A total of 80 students benefited from the educational intervention, comprising 60 undergraduate students from various tertiary institutions across Nigeria and 20 secondary school students drawn from the host communities.
Under the scheme, each undergraduate beneficiary received N500,000, while each secondary school student was awarded N100,000 to support their educational pursuits.
Speaking at the event, the Social Performance manager of Dangote Cement, Okpella Plant, Mr Daniel Obamina, described the initiative as part of the company’s deliberate effort to invest in human capital development and create sustainable opportunities for young people.
“Dangote Cement believes that education is a powerful catalyst for development. Through this scholarship programme, we are investing in the future of our young people and providing support that will enable them to pursue their academic ambitions without undue financial challenges,” Obamina said.
He noted that the scheme forms an important component of the Community Development Agreement (CDA) entered into between the company and its host communities, adding that the company remains committed to fulfilling its obligations.
Obamina explained that the commissioning of the four transformers was designed to enhance living standards and stimulate economic activities by improving power distribution.
Chairman of the Executive Committee of Host Communities (ECHC), High Chief Peter Afiabor, commended Dangote Cement for consistently honouring its commitments under the CDA.
“Today’s event is a clear demonstration of what can be achieved through constructive engagement and partnership between a company and its host communities. The scholarships will provide financial relief to families and encourage educational excellence among our youths, while the transformers will address critical electricity needs,” Afiabor said.
He urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the support and remain focused on their academic goals.
Several beneficiaries and parents lauded the initiative, describing it as a life-changing intervention that would help ease educational expenses amid rising costs.
The projects form part of Dangote Cement’s broader social investment strategy aimed at fostering socio-economic development and strengthening stakeholder relations in its host communities.
