The Ogun State Government has called on royal fathers and community leaders to ensure proper utilization of corporate social interventions by companies in their localities to foster economic growth and development.

This call was made by the Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr. Adebola Sofela, during the 2024 Community Day event organized by Dangote Cement at Ibese in Ogun State.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Olu Ola Aikulola, the Commissioner urged residents of host communities, who received tools, gadgets, and skills training, to maximize the opportunities provided and avoid dependence on handouts or palliatives.

The Commissioner emphasized the importance of companies conducting need-based social interventions, adding that the true impact of such initiatives is measured by the number of lives positively transformed.

Reassuring businesses in the state of government support to drive development, the Commissioner encouraged the sustainability of corporate social responsibility programs.

“It is essential for companies to implement need-based intervention projects, while royal fathers and community leaders must ensure their effective use. Industries should also leverage feedback from stakeholders to improve and sustain these initiatives,” he said.

In his remarks, the Plant Director of Dangote Cement, Ibese, Mr. Roy Uttam, expressed gratitude to the host communities for their cooperation. He highlighted the company’s contributions, including scholarships for 120 outstanding and indigent students and the distribution of 55 chest freezers to support women in expanding their businesses, all aimed at enhancing livelihoods.

The event recorded an impressive turnout of key stakeholders.