Gboko: The Dangote Cement Plc has announced a significant increase in its scholarship fund for host communities in Gboko, Benue, tripling the amount to accommodate more beneficiaries. The Head of Social Performance, Dangote Cement, Gboko Plant, Dr. Johnson Kor, revealed that the company has broadened its intervention scope to include a larger number of students.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Plant Director of the Gboko Plant, Abhijit Dutta, during the presentation of the symbolic cheque in Gboko, emphasized the increase from ten million Naira to about thirty million Naira for this year’s scholarship. Dutta, represented by the Head of Finance Department, Olusegun Orebanjo, indicated that more than 230 students are beneficiaries of the 2025 education scheme. The eligibility now extends beyond the immediate host community of Mbayion to include other mining communities such as Mbatur in Yandev district, Mbazembe Community in Ipav district, and Pass Brothers community in Guma local government council.
Dutta remarked that the host communities are regarded as valued partners and that the scholarship scheme reflects the company’s commitment to education and human capital development. The scholarship cheque was presented at a ceremony that featured the graduation of beneficiaries from a youth skill acquisition programme, sponsored by Dangote Cement Plant, Gboko, and supervised by the Industrial Training Fund (ITF).
The scholarship fund has been increased to 28.8 million Naira and its scope expanded to encompass all six host communities, in alignment with the Community Development Agreement (CDA). Dutta highlighted the company’s dedication to sustaining educational interventions, emphasizing the role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in fostering community growth and business success. He urged beneficiaries to use the scholarship funds responsibly and noted that the process is overseen by a committee to ensure fairness and accountability.
In collaboration with community leaders and stakeholders, Dangote Cement has implemented several development programmes in 2025, including a Women Empowerment Programme, Farmers’ Empowerment Programme, and Youth Empowerment Programme, targeting multiple communities. These initiatives aim to provide skills, restore dignity, and promote sustainable livelihoods.
Traditional ruler Ter Gboko, Gabriel Shosum, represented by Mue Ter Gboko, Ikpa Ahua, encouraged beneficiaries to use the bursary wisely. Mrs. Sarah Adeniyi from the Industrial Training Fund praised Dangote Cement Plc for its commitment to youth skill development and partnership in progress.