Dangote Cement Plc has marked the International Youth Day at its Obajana plant, Kogi State.

Speaking at the event, the Plant Director, Nawabuddin Azad, who was represented by General Manager, Social Performance, Ademola Adeyemi, explained that the company’s policy is in alignment with the United Nations’ ideals of empowering the youth to enable them to play significant roles in the social and economic development of societies.

Azad, who spoke on the theme: ‘Local Youth Action on SDG and Beyond,’ noted that youngsters have always been in the firm’s job creation and empowerment programmes.

He said that, only recently, youths from the company’s host communities were empowered through initiatives in poultry farming, solar entrepreneurship, fashion design, and several other vocational skills.

“At our plant, we believe in shared value where business success goes together with social progress. We are committed to supporting initiatives that empower the youth, uplift communities and promote sustainable practices,” Azad said.

Addressing staff and guests at the plant, the Chief General Manager and Head of Production, Mr. John Gwong, described the youth as the greatest asset of any nation, noting that their creativity, energy, and innovation remain critical for Nigeria’s future.

He stressed that Dangote Cement views the youth not only as future leaders, but also as present contributors to the company’s growth.

On his part, the Head of Human Resources, Mr. Azeez Adeniyi, emphasised the importance of instilling discipline, hard work, and integrity in young people.

He noted that the youth population is central to Nigeria’s workforce and that their skills and values directly influence the productivity of industries such as cement manufacturing.

Also speaking, Head, Technical, Dangote Academy, Mr. Wale Adedeji, urged youths to embrace technology and innovation, stressing that the future belongs to those who are adaptable and forward-thinking.