Dangote Cement Honours Top Drivers, Pledges Enhanced Welfare

Dangote Cement Plc has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to driver safety and welfare, honouring outstanding personnel for exemplary performance while pledging continued investment in welfare and safer transport operations.

The recognition was held at the Company’s 2026 Drivers’ Safety Retreat for Ibese Plant drivers in Ibese, Ogun State, themed ‘Think Safety, Act Safely’. The retreat brought together drivers, transport personnel and management representatives to reinforce safe driving practices and strengthen safety culture.

Speaking at the event, Group managing director, Arvind Pathak, declared that “no delivery is worth a life” and charged drivers to ensure every journey ends safely.

“Every time you get behind the wheel, you are carrying more than a product. You are carrying the reputation of this Company, the trust of other road users and, most importantly, your own life. We can replace a truck; we cannot replace a human being,” Pathak said.

He stressed that while drivers remain critical to Dangote Cement’s nationwide distribution network, their wellbeing and safe return home after every journey matter even more.

“We appreciate the sacrifices you make every day to keep our business moving. That is why we are committed not only to providing you with the tools and training to work safely, but also to listening to your concerns and improving your welfare. When our drivers are safe, our operations are stronger and our communities are safer,” he said.

Pathak urged drivers to avoid speeding, fatigue and unsafe practices, noting that professionalism is measured not by how quickly a journey is completed but by how safely.

“I want every driver to remember one simple principle: if you are tired, stop and rest. If a situation looks unsafe, do not take chances. The goal is not just to reach your destination; the goal is to return home safely to your family.”

In his goodwill message, the Aboro of Ibeseland, Oba Rotimi Oluseyi Mulero, urged drivers to prioritise rest whenever fatigued, reminding them that their families depend on their safe return.

Also speaking, head of Transport, Murilo Silva, warned against reckless driving, proxy driving and other unsafe practices, stating that such actions would not be tolerated.

The retreat featured an interactive session where drivers discussed welfare issues including rising cost of living and work-related expenses.

As part of the event, awards were presented to eight outstanding drivers, four fleet officers and one STM recipient for their commitment to safety.

Drivers expressed appreciation for the Company’s investment in their welfare and pledged to uphold the highest safety standards and regard trucks entrusted to them as valuable business assets.