BUA Cement Plc has strengthened its commitment to youth empowerment by graduating 60 youths from its host communities in Sokoto State after completing a six-month intensive training programme on heavy-duty equipment operations.The initiative, implemented through the company’s Sokoto Cement Plant, forms part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme aimed at equipping young people with technical skills, reducing unemployment and promoting sustainable livelihoods.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony held at the company’s premises, Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu commended BUA Cement for its continued investment in human capital development and community empowerment.

Represented by the Commissioner for Commerce and Industries, Haruna Abba Bashir, the governor praised the company for creating employment opportunities and providing practical skills that would help tackle youth unemployment and poverty.

“We acknowledge your efforts in reducing unemployment by creating opportunities for young people to acquire innovative skills while strengthening poverty alleviation, particularly within your host communities,” he said.

Aliyu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for businesses to flourish, noting that partnerships between government and the private sector remain vital to the state’s economic growth.

He described human capital development, entrepreneurship and skills acquisition as key drivers of economic prosperity, urging the graduates—especially those offered employment—to demonstrate discipline, dedication and professionalism in their careers.

Assistant Director of Human Resources at BUA Cement, Abdulrasheed Mode, said the trainees underwent six months of rigorous classroom and practical instruction designed to prepare them for heavy-duty equipment and other operational responsibilities within the company.

According to him, 52 of the graduates have already secured employment with BUA Cement, describing the programme as a significant milestone in developing a skilled local workforce.

“They underwent comprehensive training on various equipment and operational procedures to prepare them for professional responsibilities,” Mode said, urging the new employees to uphold the company’s values and operational standards.

Managing Director of BUA Cement Plc, Yusuf Haliru Binji, represented by the Head of Administration and Corporate Affairs, Sada Suleiman, said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to empowering host communities while strengthening its pool of skilled personnel.

He expressed appreciation to the Sokoto State Government for its continued support, noting that the collaboration has enabled the company to expand its business operations and implement impactful community development projects.

Binji added that BUA Cement remains committed to creating opportunities for young people through sustainable CSR programmes focused on education, vocational training, skills acquisition and economic empowerment.

In separate remarks, traditional rulers from the host communities commended the company for its sustained investment in youth development and community growth.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates to the graduates by government officials, company executives and traditional rulers, marking the successful completion of the training programme and the beginning of new career opportunities for the participants.