Firm graduates female truck drivers to foster gender inclusion

Lafarge Africa Plc has re-enacted its commitment to gender inclusion with the graduation of a new cohort of female truck drivers under its Women-on-Wheels (WoW) initiative.

The ceremony was held at Lafarge Driving Institute in Ewekoro, Ogun State The initiative underscores the company’s dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion in the transport and logistics industry.

The event was attended by key stakeholders, including representatives from government agencies, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), industry and community leaders.

In his opening remarks, Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Lafarge Africa Plc, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, highlighted the significance of the initiative, stating: “At Lafarge Africa, we are constantly investing in critical areas of the business that will enable women to thrive. The Women on Wheels programme is one of our women-led initiatives, which has seen us add certified female truck drivers to our logistics value chain. The programme is one of the revelations of the transport industry, and we hold on to it dearly as a game changer.”

In his address, Logistics Director, Lafarge Africa Plc., Osaze Aghatise, emphasised the broader impact of the project, noting: “Our decision to encourage female drivers inspired the creation of the Women-On-Wheels programme, expanding our tentacles of gender equality and inclusion while giving women more voice and representation. We are delighted that the number of our female drivers is growing, and they have successfully ensured safe, efficient, and timely deliveries to customers. Today, we are adding to the numbers, which means bringing more safety to the roads and our operations. We hope to add more as the years go by.”

The WoW initiative is designed to equip women with the technical skills and road safety knowledge necessary to operate heavy-duty vehicles efficiently. Through this programme, Lafarge Africa has provided comprehensive training in collaboration with accredited driving partners and safety organisations, ensuring that the newly certified drivers are well-prepared for the industry.

In her speech, Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye-Oladapo, lauded the initiative, saying: “The impact of this programme extends beyond today’s graduates. It is a clear demonstration that when women are given the opportunity, they rise to the challenge and excel. This initiative is not just about training drivers, it is about economic empowerment, reducing unemployment, and advancing gender equality in Nigeria. We commend Lafarge Africa for their unwavering commitment to this cause.”

In the same vein, the Commissioner for Industry, Trade & Investment, Mr. Adebola Sofela, represented by Director, Geological Services, Mr. Olalekan Eniolawun, commended the firm for investing in women and opening up more economic opportunities and growth for them within the logistics Industry.