Dangote Farmers Empowerment Programme launches in Benue to support 50 local farmers with inputs to scale commercial crop production and boost food security

The Dangote Farmers Empowerment Programme has officially launched in Benue State to support 50 farmers from Gboko Local Government Area.

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The initiative aims to boost food production and improve livelihoods through access to essential agricultural inputs.

A statement from Dangote Cement Plc described the move as part of its ongoing contribution to food security and economic development in its host communities.

Speaking during the launch, Johnson Kor, General Manager of Social Performance, called the programme “historic and innovative,” noting that the selected farmers come from six catchment areas around the company’s Gboko Plant.

Each participant will receive fertilisers, agrochemicals, knapsack sprayers and high-yield crop seedlings to help them transition from subsistence to commercial farming.

Plant Director Munusamy Murugan confirmed the company plans to run the Dangote Farmers Empowerment Programme annually, with adjustments to suit local needs.

“We are committed to creating long-term impact through sustainable agricultural support,” he said.

The launch follows recent empowerment efforts by Dangote Cement in the area, including grants for businesswomen and a bursary increase of over 100% for local students.

Dr Ahemen Samuel, a consultant from Abbass Corporate Services, encouraged the farmers to fully engage with the programme.

“It is a stepping stone to becoming entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector,” he said.

Community member Kwaghgba Isaac described the initiative as a game-changer.

“This programme is timely. It will help us feed our families and contribute to national food security,” he said.

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Dangote Cement also hinted at future plans, including a youth-focused training scheme in welding, fabrication and solar installation to broaden community impact.