Lafarge Africa Graduates 15 Female Truck Drivers in Landmark Women on Wheels Program
Lafarge Africa Plc, a prominent cement manufacturer in Nigeria, has marked a significant achievement with the graduation of 15 female truck drivers and five community drivers under its flagship Women on Wheels initiative. The ceremony took place recently at the company's Ashaka Cement Plant in Gombe State, highlighting a commitment to diversity and inclusion in the construction logistics sector.
Empowering Women Through Rigorous Training
The newly inducted female drivers underwent an intensive six-month training program at the Lafarge Drivers Institute. This comprehensive curriculum equipped them with advanced technical and safety skills, including vehicle handling, defensive driving techniques, fuel efficiency practices, and simulation-based training. The program aims to enhance road safety standards and set new benchmarks for gender diversity in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Leadership Commends Transformative Impact
Gombe State Deputy Governor, Mannasseh Jatau, praised Lafarge Africa Plc for its dedication to community empowerment through impactful initiatives. He emphasized that the company is addressing societal challenges by creating opportunities for young women, fostering sustainable employment and an inclusive workforce.
In his opening remarks, Group Managing Director and CEO Lolu Alade-Akinyemi described the graduation as a defining moment that reflects progress and hope for Nigeria's construction and logistics landscape. Logistics Director Osazemen Aghatise noted that the Women on Wheels initiative has broken barriers and redefined possibilities, urging graduates to uphold high standards of discipline, professionalism, and safety.
Expanding Opportunities Across Nigeria
Aghatise highlighted that the 15 female drivers now join a growing community of over 100 women working as drivers for Lafarge Africa. He announced plans to expand the initiative from Ewekoro to Calabar and Ashaka, ensuring widespread transformation. "You have earned your place in a space where many believed you did not belong. You are pioneers and proof that limits are meant to be challenged," he said.
Strategic Social Investment in the North East
Managing Director of Ashaka Cement Limited, Ibrahim Aminu, described the graduation as a milestone for the North East region. He noted that integrating these women and community drivers into operations will help address driver shortages and improve logistics efficiency. Aminu expressed gratitude to the Gombe State Government for providing an enabling environment and described the program as a strategic social investment.
Graduate Perspective and Event Highlights
Best graduating driver Judith Baka, speaking on behalf of the cohort, thanked Lafarge Africa for the opportunity, which has positioned her to achieve her aspirations. She commended the logistics team and trainers for their dedication and resilience.
The event was attended by dignitaries including the Emir of Funakaye, Alhaji Yakubu Kwairanga, and the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps in Gombe, Samson Kaura. Since its inception in 2019, Lafarge Africa has trained over 100 female truck drivers, reinforcing its commitment to empowering women and shaping the future of Nigeria's building and construction industry.
