Some farming inputs have been distributed to farmers drawn from 17 host communities of the Ibese Plant of Dangote Cement Plc.
This is part of the organisation’s commitment to food security and sustainable community development, under its annual farmers’ empowerment initiative, which has become a cornerstone of the company’s social investment strategy.
The beneficiaries received modern farming inputs alongside technical training aimed at improving crop yield, productivity, and income across the agricultural value chain.
Business Post gathered that each of the 60 farmers got three bags of 50kg NPK fertiliser, two bags of Urea fertiliser, one Knapsack sprayer and 10 litres of Force-Up herbicide.
Welcoming the guests and beneficiaries, the Plant Director, Mr Ayyagari Subbaraidu, emphasised that the programme was designed not only to support local farmers but to build a sustainable agricultural ecosystem within the company’s host communities.
He noted that the intervention aligns with Dangote Cement’s broader corporate social responsibility priorities, which include empowerment, education, health, and infrastructure development.
Mr Subbaraidu said, “At Dangote Cement, we understand that while we manufacture cement for the construction of homes, schools, hospitals, roads, and other critical infrastructure, true development is ultimately about people. It is about creating opportunities, improving livelihoods, and enabling communities to thrive. This philosophy remains at the heart of our operations and our relationship with our host communities.”
He disclosed that to date, 300 farmers across our host communities have benefited from training, farm inputs, and agricultural tools, noting that they have cultivated more than 800 acres of farmland and produced over 40,000 tons of agricultural output.
“These figures tell an important story, representing families whose livelihoods have improved, children whose educational needs have been supported, businesses that have grown, and communities that have become more resilient. They demonstrate what can be achieved when communities and corporate organisations work together toward a common goal,” he stated.
“We provide modern farm inputs to support our farmers to enhance productivity and achieve better yields. This is not just about distribution; it is about enabling a shift to more efficient and sustainable farming methods that will ultimately boost food production and livelihoods,” he said.
Mr Subbaraidu revealed that the training component of the programme is critical in ensuring that beneficiaries maximise the value of the inputs provided, as participants were taken through practical sessions on good agricultural practices, including crop protection and pest management techniques, equipping them with knowledge to mitigate farming risks and improve output.
Speaking on behalf of the communities, a representative described the programme as a “game changer” that has not only boosted food production but also strengthened the relationship between the company and its host communities.
One of the farmers, Mr Akanbi Moses from Aga-Olowo Community, noted that the provision of free inputs and training has significantly improved their productivity and income levels, enabling them to scale their farming activities. Another beneficiary highlighted how the training sessions have enhanced their understanding of modern farming techniques, resulting in better crop management and reduced post-harvest losses.