NIGERIA: Dangote Cement Holds Drivers’ Retreat, Re-Trains Over 900 Truck Operators

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria 

Dangote Cement Plc has stepped up its road safety and operational efficiency measures with the retraining of hundreds of its truck drivers as part of its annual driver development programme.

Speaking at the 2025 Annual Drivers’ Retreat held at the company’s Ibese plant in Ilaro, Ogun State, Dangote Cement Group Managing Director, Arvind Pathak, said safety remains a core priority for the firm, which operates thousands of trucks nationwide.

He noted that the retreat was aimed at reinforcing the company’s “Absolute Safer Road Policy” and instilling the organisation’s values among its drivers.

According to Pathak, more than 900 drivers participated in the Ibese session, while another round of training is scheduled for Obajana, Kogi State, in the coming week. Pathak said the company would continue to ensure its drivers receive rigorous training and follow strict ethical and safety standards.

He disclosed that Dangote Cement maintains a thorough recruitment process for its drivers, including background checks, medical evaluations such as vision and blood pressure tests, drug and alcohol screening, and completion of a two-week safety and practical driving programme.

Over 2,000 prospective drivers have undergone the process in the past two months, with only qualified candidates certified to operate Dangote trucks.

He said: “All drivers also undergo pre-trip medical checks to ensure they are physically and mentally fit.”

Pathak further noted that routine random drug tests are conducted to enforce compliance with its zero-tolerance policy on substance use.

He stated that the company works closely with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the police and other regulators in enforcing safety compliance and investigating incidents.

He emphasised that authorities are also involved in monitoring and evaluating Dangote’s safety procedures.

Pathak reaffirmed Dangote Cement’s commitment to strengthening driver onboarding and training, enforcing behavioural standards, and applying penalties for violations.

He said the company would continue collaborating with regulators and communities to promote safer roads and improve public safety nationwide.