Dangote Confronts Unemployment By Establishing New Firms

VENTURES AFRICA – In an effort to mitigate the scourge of unemployment, Dangote Group has announced plans to establish an agro- sacks manufacturing company at Ibese, Ogun state to complement Dangote Cement plant in the community. This was revealed during a meeting with Ibese community host members of Yewa North Local Government Council of Baales (Chiefs).

Africa’s richest man Alhaji Aliko Dangote hinted that the company also plans to establish a tomato paste company as well as palm oil refinery in the community. Dangote, who was represented by the Group General Manager Project of Dangote Group, Mr. Joseph Alaba, disclosed these investment plans while assuring the host community that the development would bring about employment for eligible indigenes.

According to a report by Lagos-based newspaper ThisDay, he said the establishment of the companies was in line with his desire to invest more in manufacturing concerns that complement his existing companies, and by extension create job opportunities for unemployed youths.

Speaking on the expansion of the Ibese plant, Dangote said the construction of the lines three and four of the plant which will take the annual production to from the present 6 million to 12 million has started in earnest.

Dangote thanked the host community, urging the community leaders to ensure maximum cooperation as it has done in the past. He also explained the pertinence of championing production over importation in Nigeria stating that the employment generated through manufacturing would help propel the nation’s economy.

“We have been enjoying peaceful, harmonious and conducive working environment since the time we started the construction works at Ibese here up till now that production has started. We appreciate the the efforts of our Baales and we pray for lasting cordial and mutually beneficial relationship,” he said.

Further, Dangote said that community’s support had motivated his cement company to invest more in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects in Ibese, stating that the contract for the construction of a 25 kilometre cement concrete road from the Ibese plant to Itori has been awarded while the Ibese and Ilaro road is being redesigned for rehabilitation.