Dangote Cement Plc has stepped up efforts to improve road safety across its African operations, focusing on driver training, welfare and compliance with professional driving standards.
The company reinforced its commitment during the 2026 Drivers Safety Retreat held at its Obajana Plant in Kogi State. The event brought together drivers, transport personnel and management representatives to promote responsible driving and strengthen safety practices across its logistics network.
Speaking at the retreat, the Group Managing Director of Dangote Cement Plc, Arvind Pathak, urged drivers to embrace the theme, “Think Safety, Act Safely,” in their daily operations.
Pathak reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the safety and welfare of its drivers. He stressed that every driver must prioritise safe driving and ensure they return home safely after each journey.
According to him, Dangote Cement’s position as Africa’s leading cement producer depends partly on an efficient distribution network. He noted that drivers play a critical role in ensuring products reach customers safely and on time.
However, he maintained that no business target or commercial gain could justify the loss of human life. He described drivers’ safety as a priority that must take precedence over operational demands.
Pathak Urges Drivers to Prioritise Safety
Addressing participants, Pathak reminded drivers that they represent the Dangote brand on highways across the country. He said their responsibilities extend beyond transporting cement to protecting themselves and other road users.
“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,” he said.
The Dangote Cement chief executive also assured workers that the company would continue investing in training, professional development and welfare initiatives.
He described drivers as indispensable to the company’s growth and distribution operations. Therefore, he said management would continue providing the resources needed to improve safety while addressing concerns affecting drivers’ working conditions.
Pathak also acknowledged the sacrifices drivers make to keep the business running. He encouraged them to communicate their concerns and work with management to strengthen safety standards.
“When our drivers are safe, our operations are stronger and our communities are safer,” he stated.
He further warned against speeding, fatigue and other dangerous driving habits. According to him, professional driving should be measured by a safe arrival rather than how quickly a driver reaches a destination.
Pathak advised drivers to stop and rest whenever they felt tired. He also urged them to avoid taking unnecessary risks, particularly when road conditions or other circumstances posed safety concerns.
Dangote Cement Warns Against Reckless Driving
Dangote Cement’s Head of Transport, Murilo Silva, also cautioned drivers against reckless driving, proxy driving and other unsafe transportation practices.
Silva warned that the company would not tolerate conduct that endangered lives or undermined its safety standards. He urged drivers to take personal responsibility for their actions and contribute to safer roads for motorists and other road users.
Similarly, Ebere Okonkwo, Group Head of Transport, Health, Safety and Environment, Pan Africa Nigeria, highlighted the importance of the retreat in promoting safer driving practices.
She explained that the programme would help drivers understand the consequences of unsafe conduct and the need to comply with the company’s safety requirements.
Okonkwo also emphasised the importance of accountability, noting that management monitors drivers’ activities during their journeys.
Drivers Raise Welfare Concerns
Beyond safety training, the retreat provided an opportunity for drivers to engage management on issues affecting their welfare and working conditions.
During the interactive session, participants raised concerns about the rising cost of living, work-related expenses and the need for timely communication of drug test results.
Several drivers commended the company for continuing to invest in their welfare. They said the retreat demonstrated management’s concern for their lives and wellbeing beyond their daily operational responsibilities.
The drivers also pledged to maintain high safety standards and protect the trucks entrusted to them as valuable company assets. They reaffirmed their commitment to avoiding practices that could endanger lives or damage the company’s operations.
Dangote Cement Rewards Outstanding Drivers
As part of the retreat, Dangote Cement recognised personnel who demonstrated outstanding performance and commitment to safety.
The company presented awards to 10 exceptional drivers in recognition of their contributions during the period under review.
Ismaila Suleiman emerged as the most outstanding driver of the year.
The recognition formed part of the company’s efforts to encourage professionalism, reward responsible conduct and reinforce its commitment to safer transportation across its African operations.
Through the annual retreat, Dangote Cement continues to emphasise that road safety, driver welfare and operational efficiency must work together to support sustainable business growth and protect lives across the communities where it operates.
