Dangote Cement Plc’s Transport division has received high praise from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) for its exceptional adherence to rules and regulations governing road usage.
The commendation comes as Dangote Cement quadruples the enrollment of female truck drivers into its prestigious Articulated Truck Driving School, setting a positive precedent in Nigeria’s transport sector.
The Dangote Articulated Truck Driving School, the first of its kind in Nigeria, is situated in Obajana, Kogi State.
This pioneering initiative by the country’s leading cement company aims to cultivate a culture of safe driving among its drivers as well as third-party drivers.
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The school’s latest batch of trainee drivers comprises 50 individuals, including 10 aspiring female drivers participating in the 2023 Batch A session.
Mr. Ajay Singh, Divisional Director of Transport, highlighted the collaborative efforts with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the Fantique Driving Training Centre of South Africa to deliver intensive training to the enrolled candidates.
Previous assessments have demonstrated that female drivers, renowned for their carefulness and attention to detail, have consistently earned top accolades within the company.
Mr. Daniel Marcus Akuso, the school manager, emphasized that the curriculum covers various vital subjects, such as Civic Education, English, Mathematics, Defensive Driving, Truck Handling, Maintenance Technology, DCT Administration Procedures, Root Cause Analysis, Health and Science, and Road Signs and Codes.
Engr Mukhtar Umar, the Deputy Road Commandant (OC Instructor) of the FRSC attached to the Dangote Driving School, underscored the agency’s significant role in training and certifying both experienced and newly recruited drivers.
Engr Umar emphasized that the curriculum includes defensive driving, road sign comprehension, driver responsibilities, and driving culture, ensuring comprehensive preparation before certification.
Several trainees expressed their enthusiasm for the program. Oshile Victoria, a 30-year-old graduate in Economics, considers herself fortunate to have been selected.
Another trainee, a 35-year-old from Katsina State, described the opportunity as a dream come true. Fatima Haruna Adamu, 27, initially aspiring to join the army, expressed her gratitude for the driving school, which has allowed her to realize her long-held dream, believing in the principle that women can accomplish anything.
Professor Idris Bugaje, the Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), commended Dangote Cement for establishing the Articulated Truck Driving School.
Acknowledging the importance of safe driving, Professor Bugaje highlighted the partnership between NBTE and Dangote Cement Plc, emphasizing the mutual goal of fostering collaboration for the betterment of society.
