Dangote Cement trains over 200 drivers in road safety, ethics, substance abuse prevention

Dangote Cement trains over 200 drivers in road safety, ethics, substance abuse prevention 

 

In a bid to enhance road safety and reduce incidents involving its vast fleet of trucks, Dangote Cement Plc has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to training and retraining its drivers, aligning with global best practices in transportation safety.

Speaking at the 2025 Annual Drivers’ Retreat held at the company’s Ibese Plant in Ilaro, Ogun State, Dangote Cement’s Group Managing Director, Mr. Arvind Pathak, underscored the company’s dedication to maintaining a safe and responsible transportation system under the theme: “Drive Safely, Arrive Safely.”

With over 200 drivers in attendance, the retreat focused on strengthening road safety awareness, promoting ethical conduct, and reinforcing operational standards across Dangote’s logistics operations.

“As one of Africa’s largest logistics operators with thousands of trucks, road safety is not just a regulatory requirement, it is a moral obligation,” Mr. Pathak stated. “We implement a rigorous onboarding process for all drivers, and only those who pass every stage—including medical checks, drug and alcohol screening, and written and practical assessments—are certified to operate Dangote vehicles.”

Pathak added that over 500 prospective drivers had completed the recruitment process in the last two months alone, with strict adherence to standards that include a valid Class-G driver’s license, minimum of secondary school education, and 2–5 years of driving experience.

The company’s safety measures include:

Two-week intensive safety training covering 12 modules

Pre-trip medical screenings conducted by licensed medical professionals

Routine random drug testing across operations

Ongoing collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)

Dangote Cement’s Group Chief, Health, Safety, Social, and Environment Officer, Mr. James Adenuga, highlighted the importance of continuous education and behavioural reinforcement in a language and format the drivers understand.

“Our goal is not to punish, but to educate and empower our drivers to operate responsibly. We also recognise outstanding drivers to promote a culture of excellence and accountability,” Adenuga said.

Road Safety Expert, Mr. Oje Ebhota, also delivered a technical session on safe driving habits.

He warned against risky behaviours such as:

• Aggressive or impatient driving
• Use of mobile phones while driving
• Alcohol consumption before trips
• Disregard for traffic rules and signs

He advised drivers to maintain a maximum speed of 60km/h, avoid dangerous overtaking, and always be conscious of other road users.

“You are not just employees; you are ambassadors of the Dangote Group,” Ebhota reminded. “Your conduct on the road reflects the values of the company.”

The retreat us said to underscore Dangote Cement’s strategic focus on safety, accountability, and community responsibility.

The company pledged to continue collaborating with regulators and stakeholders to improve transportation safety standards nationwide.