*Dangote Cement Plc, Ibese Plant holds the 2026 Capacity Development Workshop for leaders of host communities, reaffirming the company’s commitment to sustainable community development and stakeholder engagement
Emmanuel Akosile | ConsumerConnect
The Dangote Cement Plc, Ibese Plant has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable community development and stakeholder engagement with through the successful hosting of the 2026 Annual Capacity Development Workshop for leaders of its host communities.
The conglomerate stated the one-day workshop, in its fourth edition, held at the Yewa Frontier Hotel, at Ibese, in Ogun State.
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Dangote Cement also noted the forum attracted traditional rulers, Baales, community representatives, women and youth leaders, as well as government officials under the theme, “Community Leaders as Ambassadors and Conciliators.”
It further said the training focused on strengthening leadership capacity, enhancing communication and stakeholder engagement skills, and equipping participants with practical tools for negotiation, conflict resolution, and community development.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr. Aina Olugbenga, General Manager, Human Assets Management and Administration (HAM/Admin), Dangote Cement Plc, Ibese Plant, commended the host communities for their sustained support and peaceful disposition, which he said had contributed significantly to the Plant’s growth and operational success.
According to him, community leaders play a pivotal role in fostering harmony and understanding within their communities and between stakeholders.
The General Manager, Human Assets Management and Administration stated: “This workshop reflects our belief that strong communities are built on effective leadership, constructive dialogue, and mutual respect.
“As leaders and custodians of your communities, you serve as important ambassadors of peace and development.
“We encourage you to apply the knowledge gained here to strengthen relationships, resolve conflicts amicably, and contribute meaningfully to the continued progress of your communities and the Plant.”
In his goodwill message, Hon. Dr. Samuel Olabode Olusola, Chairman of Yewa North Local Government, praised Dangote Cement for maintaining cordial and productive relationships with its host communities.
Dr. Olusola noted that the company’s investments in community engagement and development initiatives have continued to promote peaceful coexistence and inclusive growth within the area.
He stated: “Dangote Cement deserves commendation for its consistent efforts at nurturing harmonious relationships with its host communities.
“Such initiatives help to build trust, strengthen social cohesion, and create an enabling environment for development.
“We encourage the Company to sustain its road safety and truck driver training programmes, which have become important measures for enhancing safety on our roads.”
Also speaking, Mr. Ademola Ojolowo, Head of Social Performance, Dangote Cement Plc, Ibese Plant, expressed appreciation to participants for their continued collaboration with the Company and highlighted the inclusion of Baales in this year’s edition of the programme as part of efforts to broaden community participation and strengthen grassroots engagement.
Ojolowo said: “Our host communities remain critical partners in our journey towards sustainable development. “By expanding participation in this year’s workshop, we are creating more opportunities for engagement, knowledge sharing, and collaboration.
“We encourage participants to take advantage of the sessions and apply the lessons in promoting peaceful coexistence, effective leadership, and community advancement.”
Participants were taken through a series of interactive sessions addressing leadership effectiveness, communication strategies, stakeholder engagement, negotiation techniques, and conflict management.
The workshop equipped attendees with actionable skills to function more effectively as community ambassadors and conciliators while fostering social harmony, collaboration, and sustainable development across the Plant’s host communities.
The Annual Capacity Development Workshop has become an important component of Dangote Cement Ibese Plant’s stakeholder engagement strategy, providing a platform for strengthening partnerships, building local capacity, and promoting trust, shared prosperity, and long-term development within its host communities.