Dangote Cement Plc has reiterated its commitment to ensuring safety on Nigerian roads through the continuous training and retraining of its truck drivers. The Group Managing Director, Mr. Arvind Pathak, stated this during the company’s 2025 Annual Drivers’ Retreat themed “Drive Safely, Arrive Safely,” held at the Ibese plant in Ogun State. Over 200 drivers participated in the retreat, which also involved collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other regulatory agencies to standardise safety, compliance, and operational practices.
Pathak explained that Dangote Cement operates a rigorous recruitment and training process for all drivers employed by the company. Prospective drivers are required to present a valid Class G licence, undergo thorough background checks, and complete comprehensive medical examinations, including vision screening, blood pressure checks, body mass index (BMI), blood sugar tests, and drug and alcohol screening. In addition, each candidate must complete a two-week intensive training programme comprising 12 safety modules, practical driving assessments, and written examinations. Pathak revealed that within the past two months alone, over 500 drivers had completed this process, with only those who met the highest safety standards cleared to operate Dangote vehicles.
The company’s safety measures extend beyond recruitment. According to Pathak, all Dangote drivers undergo mandatory pre-trip medical assessments carried out by licensed health professionals, ensuring they remain physically and mentally fit for duty. Random drug and alcohol tests are also conducted across the operations in line with the firm’s zero-tolerance policy on substance use. He added that strict safety and behavioural standards were enforced and punitive measures applied to address errant driving. Dangote, he stressed, is a responsible organisation that works closely with the Nigeria Police and other authorities in investigating incidents and implementing recommendations to strengthen public safety.
In his remarks, Mr. James Adenuga, Group Chief of Health, Safety, Social and Environment at Dangote Industries Limited, emphasised that the retreat was designed to constantly remind drivers of safety requirements in a way they fully understand. He noted that regular training equips drivers with the knowledge and discipline required to protect themselves and other road users. Adenuga further explained that the company’s approach to training is not only corrective but also preventive, embedding safety into everyday driving culture.
Also speaking, road safety expert Mr. Oje Ebhota, who delivered a paper on safe driving practices, cautioned the drivers against dangerous overtaking and urged them to maintain a speed limit of 60 kilometres per hour. He stressed that such discipline would reduce the risk of accidents and ensure the safety of both Dangote drivers and other road users. The company maintained that its long-term vision is to ensure that every journey undertaken by its fleet is safe, compliant, and reflective of its status as a socially responsible corporate entity.
