…Boosts Small Businesses, Promotes Renewable Energy During 2026 Sustainability Week
By: Abdullahi Inuwa
Dangote Cement Plc, Obajana Plant, has intensified its commitment to grassroots economic development and environmental sustainability by empowering local entrepreneurs and commissioning a 3.6kW solar inverter system in Oyo Community as part of activities marking its 2026 Sustainability Week.
The initiatives, according to a company statement dated November 8, 2026, were designed to improve livelihoods, strengthen small businesses and expand access to reliable and environmentally friendly energy in its host communities.
A major highlight of the week-long programme was the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Empowerment and Business Development Capacity Building initiative, through which local entrepreneurs received practical training to improve their business operations and expand their economic opportunities.
The training covered critical areas of entrepreneurship, including business growth strategies, financial management, customer service and sustainable business practices.
In recognition of their commitment to entrepreneurship, resilience and continuous improvement, 15 small and medium-scale businesses were honoured with plaques of recognition.
The intervention underscores Dangote Cement’s recognition of small businesses as vital drivers of employment generation, household income, economic inclusion and community prosperity.
Beyond supporting local enterprises, the company also strengthened its investment in community infrastructure with the commissioning of a 3.6kW solar inverter system in Oyo Community.
The renewable energy installation is expected to improve electricity supply to community water infrastructure, ensuring more reliable access to water while reducing dependence on conventional energy sources.
The project is also expected to contribute to environmental protection by encouraging the adoption of cleaner energy solutions and supporting Nigeria’s transition towards sustainable development.
Speaking on the interventions, the company reiterated that sustainability remains a central pillar of its business operations and community engagement strategy.
It emphasised that meaningful development goes beyond the provision of physical infrastructure to include empowering individuals, strengthening local enterprises and improving access to essential services.
The 2026 Sustainability Week also provided a platform for strengthening relationships between the company and its host communities, celebrating shared achievements and building partnerships to address pressing local development needs.
The week-long celebration brought together employees, sustainability champions, host community members and local entrepreneurs for activities focused on environmental responsibility, social impact and sustainable economic development.
Through the various interventions, Dangote Cement Obajana reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that its industrial operations translate into tangible benefits for surrounding communities.
The company’s approach reflects the growing importance of responsible corporate citizenship, where industrial growth is matched with community empowerment, environmental protection and improved living standards.
With the empowerment of 15 SMEs and the introduction of solar-powered support for community water infrastructure, Dangote Cement Obajana has further demonstrated its determination to promote inclusive growth and create shared value beyond cement production.
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