Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals, in partnership with Dangote Fertilisers Limited, awarded scholarships to 473 students across 10 secondary schools and 7 tertiary institutions in Lekki, Oyo State, on Thursday.
The scholarship presentation was part of the 5th Edition of the Dangote Scholarship Award Programme, an initiative aimed at supporting students from the company’s host communities.
The event, which took place at Idotun Community Junior High School in Lekki, saw students, parents, teachers, and community leaders express immense joy as certificates and educational materials such as textbooks and notebooks were distributed.
The company also donated 804 tables and chairs to secondary schools within the host communities of Ibeju-Lekki to further support the education system.
Devakumar Edwin, Group Vice President of Oil & Gas at Dangote Industries Limited, remarked that the event symbolised the shared vision of Dangote Industries and the host communities.
“Education, as we all know, is the passport to the future. At Dangote, we believe that education is not just a privilege but a right that every child deserves,” Edwin emphasized. He also celebrated the growth of the scholarship programme, noting that it started with 56 students in 2019 and has now expanded to benefit 450 students in 2024.
Mr. Edwin added, “Your dreams, aspirations, and hard work inspire us to continue making a difference. As you embark on your academic journeys, remember that the support you receive today is a seed sown in fertile ground. Nurture it with dedication, perseverance, and a spirit of excellence, and it will yield remarkable fruits in your future.”
Olayinka Akande, Managing Director of Dangote Industries Free Zone Development Company (DIFZDC), also encouraged the beneficiaries to uphold excellence as one of Dangote Industries’ core values.
“Aim high, and with dedication and diligence, some of you could rise to become governors, ministers, or captains of industry,” he said.
The Head of Social Performance at Dangote Petroleum & Petrochemicals, Ogunleye Mojisola, reflected on the success of the scholarship scheme, stating, “The increase in the number of beneficiaries each year is a clear indication that the initiative is fulfilling its purpose, motivating students to study hard and achieve academic excellence.”
In his remarks, the Aro of Lekki Kingdom, Chief Adewale Salami, commended Dangote for its transformative role in shaping the future of the community. “Education is the most effective way to shape the future of the community,” he added.
Several scholarship beneficiaries, including Atibere Peter from Lagos State University and Dauda Omolara from Community Senior High School, expressed their gratitude.
“This scholarship will motivate me to study harder and ease the financial burden on my parents,” said Peter.
Dangote scholarship initiative, now in its fifth year, continues to empower students, giving them the opportunity to realize their academic and professional dreams while contributing to the development of their communities.
