Dangote Cement Plc, a leading cement producer in Nigeria, recently convened a drivers’ retreat at its Obajana plant in Kogi State to reinforce its commitment to road safety and enhance best practices within its fleet management operations. The retreat served as a platform for interaction between company executives and hundreds of Dangote truck drivers, focusing on cultivating a stronger safety culture, promoting driver discipline, and emphasizing the responsibility that comes with representing the Dangote brand on Nigerian roads. The company recognizes its drivers as ambassadors and acknowledges the crucial role they play in its operations, making their safety and professional conduct paramount.
The retreat was structured around interactive sessions and presentations designed to equip drivers with the knowledge and skills necessary for safe and responsible driving. Key topics addressed included defensive driving techniques, effective strategies for managing driver fatigue, and the importance of regular vehicle maintenance. The company’s leadership, including Group Managing Director Arvid Pathak, emphasized the value of each driver’s life, urging them to prioritize their safety and well-being for the sake of their families and the company. The retreat also provided an opportunity for drivers to offer direct feedback to management, facilitating a two-way communication channel to address challenges and improve working conditions.
Dangote Cement is investing in cutting-edge technology to bolster its safety initiatives. Murilo Silva, Head of Transport, announced the construction of advanced control towers at the Obajana plant. These technologically driven facilities will enable real-time monitoring of driver behavior, providing data-driven insights to further enhance safety and operational efficiency across the company’s extensive fleet. This investment underscores the company’s proactive approach to safety management and its commitment to leveraging technology for accident prevention. Silva also stressed the importance of adhering to speed limits, particularly on highways and in populated areas, highlighting the devastating consequences of speeding, a leading cause of road accidents involving heavy trucks.
Senior management at Dangote emphasized the multifaceted responsibility borne by their drivers. Dr. James Adenuga, Group Head of Health, Safety, Social, Environment & Sustainability at Dangote Industries Ltd., reminded drivers that they carry more than just cement; they transport the company’s reputation, the trust of their customers, and the well-being of fellow road users. This message was further reinforced by transport expert Samuel Odo, who emphasized the importance of consistent adherence to safety protocols, from wearing seatbelts and obeying speed limits to diligently checking tire pressure. Cultivating a culture of safety requires consistent practice and vigilance, transforming these actions into ingrained habits.
The retreat also highlighted the positive impact of Dangote’s ongoing safety initiatives. Hemant Rana, Divisional Director of Transport, reported a significant reduction in auto crashes attributed to increased driver training sessions and the implementation of robust monitoring systems. This achievement underscores the effectiveness of the company’s proactive approach and its commitment to continuous improvement in safety performance. The event’s theme, “Drive Safely, Arrive Safely,” encapsulates the company’s core message and its dedication to ensuring the well-being of its drivers and the communities they serve.
Community leaders from the surrounding areas also participated in the retreat, underscoring the importance of collaboration and shared responsibility for road safety. The Bajana of Obajana, HRH Idowu Isenibi, acknowledged the crucial role Dangote drivers play in the region and urged them to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and respect for traffic regulations. The Olu of Apata, HRH Federick Balogun, commended Dangote Group President Aliko Dangote for his commitment to job creation, highlighting the positive impact of the company’s employment initiatives on local communities. The retreat concluded with an awards ceremony, recognizing drivers who exemplified outstanding discipline, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to safety. This celebratory gesture served to reinforce the message that safe and responsible driving is a shared value and a source of pride for both the company and its employees. The retreat underscored Dangote Cement’s dedication to embedding road safety as a core operational principle and reiterated the drivers’ critical role in upholding this commitment on Nigeria’s roads.
