The Ogun State House of Assembly Speaker, Oludaisi Elemide, has called on Dangote Cement to address the issue of indiscriminate parking of its trucks on major roads in Yewa North Local Government Area. Speaking at the company’s 4th annual Community Day in Ibese, Elemide emphasized the need for the company to create trailer parks to prevent accidents and ease movement.
Elemide noted that while Dangote Cement has provided employment opportunities for Nigerian youths, thereby helping to reduce the “Japa syndrome,” the company must also prioritize environmental sustainability. He urged the company to be more environmentally friendly, citing the negative impact of parked trailers on the community.
In response, the Head of Social Performance at Dangote Cement, Ademola Ojolowo, revealed that the company is currently constructing a trailer park to address the issue. Ojolowo stated that the company remains committed to enhancing project efficiency, ensuring sustainability, and fostering strong partnerships with communities and government stakeholders.
The company has completed 10 developmental projects in host communities this year, with 13 others ongoing. The Commissioner for Community Development, Ademola Balogun, and the Chairman of Yewa North Local Government, Olusola Akinbode, encouraged the company to maintain and grow its infrastructure investments in the host communities.
The Aboro of Ibeseland, Oba Rotimi Mulero, appealed for better job placement opportunities for deserving community members. The call for sustainable development and environmental consciousness comes as the company continues to operate in the state, providing employment opportunities for Nigerian youths.
The issue of indiscriminate truck parking has been a concern for the community, and the construction of a trailer park is expected to alleviate the problem. The company’s commitment to sustainability and community development is crucial in maintaining a positive relationship with the host communities.
The Ogun State Government has created a favorable environment for businesses to thrive, and it is expected that companies like Dangote Cement will reciprocate by prioritizing environmental sustainability and community development. As the company continues to operate in the state, it is essential that it strikes a balance between its business interests and its social responsibility to the host communities.
