By Ayomide Otitoju
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has lauded Dangote Cement Plc, Ibese Plant, for its continued investment in agricultural development and food security through its Farmers Empowerment Programme.
Speaking at the 2025 edition of the programme in Ibese, the Minister—represented by Mines and Environment Compliance Officer (South-West), Mr. Mathew Ochimana—praised the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts, which he said have revitalized local economies, created jobs, and improved infrastructure in host communities.
“This empowerment initiative is a testament to Dangote Cement’s commitment to national food security, economic inclusion, and social cohesion. I urge beneficiaries to use the inputs wisely and avoid resale to ensure the programme’s impact is sustained,” Ochimana said.
Now in its fourth year, the programme—held under the theme “Planting to Profit: Good Agricultural Practices for Cassava and Maize”—benefitted 240 local farmers. Inputs distributed included fertilizers, improved seedlings, protective equipment, and farming tools.
Ayyagari Subbaraidu, Plant Director at Dangote Cement Ibese, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to rural development, saying: “We aim to improve farmer productivity and promote commercial-scale agriculture. This programme is a core part of our Community Development Agreement, which supports over 600 acres of farmland across host communities.”
He added that Dangote Cement’s social investment model ensures that every unit of production yields shared value for the community.
Chairman of Yewa South Local Government, Hon. Olusola Akinbode, commended the company’s alignment with Ogun State’s food security agenda. “Dangote’s intervention complements the state’s recent empowerment of farmers with over 11,000 cash crops,” he said.
Dayo Ogunyinka, Chairman of the Community Joint Consultative Committee (CJCC), described the initiative as “impactful and well-targeted,” while beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the support.
“I am grateful for this support. It will boost our farming operations and improve our livelihood,” said Iyabo Akintan, a farmer from Ijako Orile.
Olaleye Adekunle, another recipient, added: “The tools and fertilizers have made farming easier and more efficient, even under tough conditions.”
To enhance the programme’s impact, beneficiaries received training on best agricultural practices. The Farmers Empowerment Programme remains a central part of Dangote Cement’s long-term commitment to sustainable agriculture and poverty reduction in its host communities.
