In a major boost to education in Ibeju-Lekki, Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Dangote Fertiliser Limited have donated school materials valued at N241 million to 3,704 students across host communities.
The gesture was part of the 6th edition of the Dangote Scholarship Award Programme, aimed at enhancing access to quality education and improving learning environments.
The donation included school bags, uniforms, sandals, and sanitary materials distributed to 1,348 primary school pupils in five schools and 2,356 secondary school students across four schools.
Speaking at the event, Edwin Devakumar, Vice President, Oil and Gas, Dangote Group, emphasized the transformative power of education.
“Since the launch of the scholarship scheme in 2019, the programme has steadily expanded, supporting hundreds of students annually. For 2025 alone, 442 students are benefiting, including 410 secondary and 32 tertiary students,” he said.
Devakumar also highlighted the company’s broader social investments, including skills development and employment opportunities for youth in host communities. “Recently, 22 youths completed City & Guilds of London certifications in Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, with 19 already employed within the organisation,” he noted.
“At the Dangote Group, our philosophy is simple: the prosperity of our communities and the success of our businesses must go hand in hand,” he added, stressing that the initiatives align with global goals such as quality education, poverty reduction, and inclusive economic growth.
The programme received further support from the Aliko Dangote Foundation, which contributed additional school kits for beneficiaries.
Local leaders praised the interventions. Engr. Rasaki Bamidele Kasali, Executive Chairman of Lekki LCDA, described the initiative as “impactful and timely” and appealed for similar programmes to extend to neighbouring communities.
Likewise, HRM Oba Kazeem Olumuyiwa Ogunbekun, Onilekki of Lekki Land, commended Dangote’s consistent support, noting its positive impact on livelihoods and community relations.
Beneficiaries also lauded the initiative. Yusiot Taiwo, a City & Guilds graduate, described it as life-changing and providing pathways to employment, while Saheed Olukayode, an indigene of Ibeju-Lekki, said the programme renewed his educational aspirations.
The Dangote Group reiterated its commitment to aligning business growth with community prosperity, focusing on education, skills development, and inclusive opportunities for host communities.
