Lafarge Africa Plc has once again demonstrated its commitment to gender inclusion with the graduation of a new cohort of female truck drivers under its Women-on-Wheels (WoW) initiative.
The graduation ceremony was held at the Lafarge Driving Institute in Ewekoro, Ogun State, recently.
In his opening remarks, group managing director and chief executive officer, Lafarge Africa Plc,Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, highlighted the significance of the Women-on-Wheels initiative, stating, “At Lafarge Africa, we are constantly investing in critical areas of the business that will enable women to thrive.
In his address, logistics director, Lafarge Africa Plc.,Osaze Aghatise, emphasised the broader impact of the Women-on-Wheels initiative, stating, “Our decision to encourage female drivers inspired the creation of the Women-On-Wheels programme, expanding our tentacles of gender equality and inclusion, while giving women more voice and representation. We are delighted that the number of our female drivers is growing and they have successfully ensured safe, efficient, and timely deliveries to customers. Today, we are adding to the numbers, which means bringing more safety to the roads and our operations. We hope to add more as the years go by.”
On her part, the commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Ogun State, Honourable Adijat Adeleye-Oladapo,praised the initiative, saying, “The impact of this programme extends beyond today’s graduates. It is a clear demonstration that when women are given the opportunity, they rise to the challenge and excel. This initiative is not just about training drivers; it is about economic empowerment, reducing unemployment, and advancing gender equality in Nigeria. We commend Lafarge Africa for their unwavering commitment to this cause.”
In the same vein, the commissioner of Industry, Trade & Investment, Ogun state, Adebola Sofela, represented by the director, Geological Services, Ministry of Industry, Trade & Investment, Olalekan Eniolawun, commended Lafarge Africa for investing in women and opening up more economic opportunities and growth for them within the Logistics Industry.
“Lafarge Africa is doing a remarkable job empowering young women to be industrious as they take on a daring challenge as female drivers. We are proud to see these bold women here today and are rooting for their success”.
Sector commander, Ogun State Command, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Akinwumi Fasakin,commended the initiative, stating, ‘Your success in this programme is a testament to Lafarge Africa’s unwavering commitment to gender diversity and inclusion”.
