Dangote Cement Increases Bursary Payments to Benue Host Communities

By Taiwo Ogunniyi

Dangote Cement Plc, Gboko Plant, Benue State, has announced a significant upward review of its bursary payments to host communities, in response to long-standing requests from the Mbayion people.

The acting Plant Director, Engr. Murusamy Murugan, disclosed this during the presentation of the 2024 Dangote scholarship to the host community at the plant on Tuesday, December 31, 2024. The event was held in collaboration with the Yion Clan Foundation and the Yion Traditional Council.

Engr. Murugan revealed that the bursary amount has been increased to ₦22,800, effective from 2025.

“Over the past years, there have been calls from the Mbayion people for an upward review of this amount, and I am glad to inform you that this has been reviewed upwards to ₦22,800 with effect from 2025. It is our expectation that it would be judiciously used for those that merit it,” he said.

He added that the company would continue to prioritize community development projects in line with its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy and Community Development Agreement.

The Mue Ter Gboko, His Royal Highness Ikpa Ahua, expressed gratitude to Dangote Industries Limited for addressing the community’s concerns.

He reaffirmed the community’s commitment to fostering a cordial relationship with the company, emphasizing the positive impact of Dangote Cement on the livelihoods of many locals.

“Numerous sons and daughters of the host community are gainfully employed by the company, earning their livelihoods. Therefore, it would be unwise not to preserve the existing harmonious bond between the community and the company,” the monarch stated.

The president of the Yion Development Association (YIDA), Comrade Orver Yongu, also commended the company for its commitment to the community, particularly the financial support provided during the recent Yion Day celebration held in Ihungwanor, Gboko.

Outgoing Deputy General Manager, Social Performance Department, Dr. Eugene Ivase, reassured the host community of the company’s dedication to their welfare.

“We want to state that we take whatever you say here seriously. From henceforth, things will only get better. We, however, still solicit the continued cooperation of the traditional rulers and elders of the community,” Dr. Ivase said.

The ceremony underscored Dangote Cement’s continued efforts to strengthen its relationship with the host community through impactful initiatives.

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