‘How transporters can improve skills, excellence’

To encourage best practices in the logistics business, Lafarge Africa Plc, at a two-day capacity-building event tagged, The Transporters’ Summit, has empowered its independent transport partners, who distribute its products across the country.

Speaking at the event, the Country Chief Executive Officer, Lafarge Africa Plc, Khaled El-Dokani, noted that the yearly summit is a platform for transport businesses working with Lafarge to improve their operations by getting acquainted with new developments that drive efficiency, support best practices and profitability and improve logistics safety within the sector.

El-Dokani said: “As you know, operational excellence and innovation are key principles that guide all we do at Lafarge. We will become more innovative and more efficient as a company if we provide a platform for key partners to learn about and assimilate cutting-edge developments in logistics.’

“We not only promise to deliver products to Nigerian customers that are of the same quality that Holcim customers enjoy in over 70 countries in the world, but we are also committed to delivering the products on time and in excellent condition. You, our dear Transporters, help us fulfil this promise,” El-Dokani added.

He said the company’s commitment to sustainable policies will lower the environmental impact of logistics operations on the planet.

“These businesses must adhere to the company’s standard policies of doing business including its strict adherence to global health and safety standards. To qualify as a transporter, potential transporters must satisfy certain criteria including ensuring that their trucks are in safe and roadworthy conditions, utilization of digital safety applications and employment of well-trained drivers”, he said.

The CFO and Supply Chain Director, Lafarge Africa Plc, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, said: “You are a critical part of the Lafarge customer experience. As you are aware, our journey to excellence began a long time ago. It is imperative to note that this journey has been that of a deliberate and consistent desire to add value to the business and all our partners. You can clearly see that what we have achieved over the years is through your valuable partnership, support and collaboration.”

He said: “As an organisation, our commitment to sustainability is unwavering. Very recently, we announced our acquisition of 52 NLNG fueled trucks to again reaffirm our commitment to affordable and clean energy (SDG7). It is a significant achievement, powered by a committed team towards achieving our organizational objectives.’

The Country Head of Logistics Osazemen Aghatise, thanked the transporters for their partnership and commitment and underscored the importance of ensuring safety in logistics.

Meanwhile, Lafarge recently produced its first set of certified female truck drivers through its Lafarge Driving Institute as part of the company’s commitment to inclusive workplaces for women, a deliberate pledge to gender diversity, all-round safety on Nigerian roads through the availability of qualified drivers within its operations, and creation of jobs around its host communities.