Lafarge Africa Plc, a leading manufacturer of cement, ready-mix, mortar, and Plaster of Paris products, has graduated 15 female truck drivers alongside five community drivers under its flagship Women on Wheels initiative. The firm stated in a statement on Sunday that the graduation ceremony was held on April 9, 2026, at the company’s Ashaka Cement Plant in Gombe State.
The newly inducted female drivers underwent rigorous technical and safety training. They were equipped with the competencies required to operate heavy-duty vehicles efficiently while upholding industry best practices. Beyond addressing driver shortages, the initiative is strengthening road safety standards and setting new benchmarks for diversity and inclusion within Nigeria’s construction logistics sector.
Delivering the keynote address, the Deputy Governor of Gombe State, Mannasseh Jatau, commended Lafarge Africa Plc for its continued commitment to empowering communities through impactful initiatives. He noted that the company has demonstrated a commendable approach to addressing societal challenges by creating opportunities for young women through this transformative programme.
In his opening remarks, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Lafarge Africa Plc, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, described the graduation as a defining moment that reflects progress, hope, and the evolving future of Nigeria’s construction and logistics landscape.
According to him, the initiative is redefining the logistics value chain by challenging long-standing stereotypes and demonstrating that excellence knows no gender. He congratulated the graduands and encouraged them to carry themselves with courage, confidence, and professionalism.
“I extend my warmest congratulations to you. You should be proud of yourselves. You have broken barriers and shattered glass ceilings. As you step into this next phase, remain courageous, take pride in your work, and continue to represent excellence. You are role models, and what you are doing is truly exceptional,” he said.
In his welcome address, the Logistics Director of Lafarge Africa Plc, Osazemen Aghatise, stated that the Women on Wheels initiative has not only broken barriers but also marked a new chapter in the company’s history. He noted that the programme is redefining possibilities by creating access where none existed, giving ambition a platform, and reinforcing that competence has no gender.
He described the initiative’s success as the result of intentional investment in people, capability, and inclusion as a driver of performance. He further urged the graduates to uphold the highest standards of discipline, professionalism, and safety, emphasising that safety remains non-negotiable.
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The female drivers now join a growing community of over 100 women currently working as drivers for Lafarge Africa. “This is just the beginning. From Ewekoro to Calabar and now Ashaka, we are expanding this initiative to ensure that transformation is widespread. To our graduands, you have earned your place in a space where many believed you did not belong.