WAPA, DANGOTE CEMENT Partner To Promote Sustainable Empowerment Across Lagos Communities

Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Photo: X

The Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strategic partnerships that promote women’s empowerment, sustainable development, and community inclusion through a new collaboration with Dangote Cement Plc. The Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo, made this known during the Dangote Cement Personal Social Responsibility (PSR) Ceremony held on Monday, October 27, 2025, at the WAPA Vocational Centre, Anthony Village, Lagos.

The event, which formed part of Dangote’s Sustainability 2025 Week themed “Sustainable Progress: Celebrating Growth and Partnership,” marked a significant milestone in the drive for inclusive growth. It featured the enrollment of eight beneficiaries from the Ajomo-Ikosi community into vocational training at the Kosofe Skill Acquisition Centre. Each participant also received start-up packs to reinforce their skills and promote self-reliance in their chosen fields.

In her remarks, Mrs. Onigbanjo lauded Dangote Cement Plc for its ongoing collaboration with the Lagos State Government in creating opportunities for women and youth at the grassroots. She noted that the initiative aligns with the vision of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu to achieve inclusive economic growth and poverty alleviation under the THEMES Plus Agenda. According to her, empowering women and young people with employable skills is vital to building a more sustainable and inclusive Lagos.

Speaking on behalf of Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), Dr. Oyekemi Oyelola, Deputy Head, Sustainability, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to promoting sustainability and corporate social responsibility initiatives that enhance livelihoods and drive community development. She was joined by Mr. Wakeed Olayinka, Group Head, Social Performance; Dr. Adeyemi Adun, Group Environment and Sustainability Lead; and Dr. Isaac Ekere, Decarbonization Manager. Dr. Oyelola also emphasized the importance of proper waste management practices, urging residents to adopt responsible disposal methods to foster a cleaner and healthier environment.

The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of start-up packs to the newly enrolled beneficiaries. Expressing appreciation on behalf of the community, Mr. Akinbi Adebowale David, Youth Leader of Ajomo-Omojuwa Estate, Kosofe, commended the Lagos State Government and Dangote Cement Plc for their continued support and life-changing initiatives. The event was attended by Directors from WAPA, Management Staff of Skill Acquisition Centres, the Principal of Kosofe Skill Acquisition Centre, Mrs. Paulina Oseagwuina, representatives of Dangote Cement Plc, and other key stakeholders who praised the partnership for driving grassroots empowerment and sustainable livelihoods.