The Dangote Group has received commendation from the Nigerian government for its leading roles in supporting the government’s efforts at diversifying the nation’s economy.
Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Salako gave the commendation while on a familiarisation visit to the Dangote Cement plant, Ibese, Ogun State
Salako stated that mining was one of the key industrial sectors that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has targeted for economic diversification as the nation embarks on the gradual shift from oil and gas dependency.
He however pointed out that while the mining sector has huge potential to develop the nation’s economy, many challenges are associated with mining activities.
“For us in the Ministry of Environment, it means we must also sit up. Mining as it comes with its advantages, also comes with its challenges. So, we must be up and doing, as we expand the economy and grow Nigeria. We should also do it sustainably so that the environment is not adversely affected”, he stated.
The Minister whose visit was not unconnected with the Environmental impact assessment of the Plant Coal Mill also applauded Dangote’s efforts at creating jobs and opportunities for export as well as its dedication to promotion of best practices in all its operations.
He said, “Dangote Industries as a whole is an international conglomerate and I am happy that the company is at the forefront of promoting best practices in terms of conception, planning, implementation, management of factories that are manufacturers like this.” Having gone round to see the operations in the plant, I give kudos to Dangote Cement for the automation and high technology-driven operations.”
“We must continue in that respect to ensure that best practices are always promoted, environmental and social impact assessments are properly carried out, the stakeholders are properly involved, and the environment is properly protected so that our growth can be sustainable. That’s why we are here and I am happy that Dangote is at the forefront of that.”
Representing the Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun at the visit, the State’s Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya said the state has benefitted immensely from the placement of the Dangote Cement in its domain with the amount of levies and taxes it has paid into the state coffer.
He called for more collaboration between the state agencies and the company while pledging the state’s continuous support for the company.
For his part, the Dangote Plant Director, Mr. Azad Nawabuddin took the minister through the social investments and infrastructural milestones recorded by the Plant since its inception, saying the Company has been able to substantially contribute to infrastructure development and employment in the host communities.
The Minister’s visit was followed by a community engagement preparatory to the Expert Panel Review of the report of an Environmental Impact Assessment carried out on Coal milling at the Plant.
