Aliko Dangote
Dangote Cement Expands Scholarship Scheme to Kogi Communities
Picnews
Students from several communities in Kogi State have been chosen as the latest beneficiaries of the Dangote Cement scholarship program. In a significant expansion of its community outreach, the leading African cement manufacturer has broadened its corporate social responsibility efforts beyond its immediate operational area in Obajana to include communities across Oworoland and Lokoja.
During the scholarship award ceremony held in Obajana on Monday, Plant Director Azad Nawabuddin emphasized that although Oworo communities are not within the company’s direct catchment area, Dangote Cement chose to extend its generosity by offering scholarships to Oworo students through the trusted platform of the Oworo Development Association (ODA). He reiterated that the company has consistently operated a scholarship scheme for its host communities in alignment with its Community Development Agreement and broader CSR principles.
Beyond educational support, Nawabuddin highlighted the company’s ongoing commitment to improving community welfare, noting the provision of five new boreholes to various Oworo communities. He assured residents that Dangote Cement remains dedicated to sustaining and expanding its CSR initiatives throughout the Oworo District.
Ademola Adeyemi, General Manager of Social Performance, shared that the inaugural cohort of 50 scholarship recipients includes 26 female and 24 male students. He explained that the company intends to support each beneficiary throughout their entire academic journey, provided they maintain strong academic performance. New applicants will only be considered when current beneficiaries complete their studies.
Adeyemi acknowledged the essential role played by the Oworo Development Association and other stakeholders in the transparent selection process. He described the initiative as more than just financial aid—it is an investment in the community’s future, symbolizing hope and the right of every child to pursue an education.
Alhaji Jibril Odoga Ibrahim, President of the Oworo Development Association, praised Dangote Cement for making a long-held dream a reality. He urged the selected students to view the scholarship as both an opportunity and a responsibility—challenging them to excel academically and contribute back to their community in the future.
The Kogi State Commissioner for Education, represented by Acting Permanent Secretary Mrs. Omolayo Bilkisu, applauded the initiative as a model of public-private partnership and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to collaborative efforts that advance education and development.
Traditional leaders, including the Olu of Apata, Oba Federick Balogun, and the Obaro of Ogbagon Community, Oba Ahmodu Umar Adoga, also expressed gratitude, noting that education forms the bedrock of sustainable development and that the scholarship program will open new doors for the youth of Oworo.
Honourable Victoria Temitope, a councilor representing Oworo Ward, joined other speakers in encouraging the beneficiaries to take full advantage of the opportunity, reminding them that they are the future doctors, engineers, and leaders who will bring pride and progress to their communities.
