No fewer than 1,500 Dangote Cement truck drivers have successfully undergone intensive screening exercises designed to ascertain their mental, psychological, and physical fitness for safe driving.
The Group Managing Director of Dangote Cement Plc, Arvind Pathak, disclosed this to journalists following his presentation at the 2025 Annual Drivers’ Retreat held in Ilaro, Ogun State.
Pathak explained that while the screening exercise has always been mandatory, the company has intensified its efforts in response to prevailing challenges on Nigerian roads.
He added that in the past two months alone, over 1,500 prospective drivers have completed the process, with only those who met all required standards certified to operate Dangote Group vehicles. Beyond recruitment, all drivers also undergo mandatory pre-trip medical assessments conducted by licensed nurses and doctors.
Reiterating the company’s commitment, Pathak said: “As a leading cement manufacturer with thousands of trucks in our fleet, safety on the road remains our utmost priority. Our commitment to safety extends beyond compliance — it is about protecting our drivers, other road users, and the communities we serve.”
He emphasized that Dangote Cement Plc is fully committed to continuous training and retraining of its drivers, ensuring safe and efficient operations nationwide. Drivers undergo a two-week intensive training program, comprising twelve safety modules, practical driving assessments, and written examinations.
Pathak further noted that Dangote Cement consistently collaborates with the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant authorities in investigating reported incidents, fully supporting lawful processes and routinely implementing recommendations that enhance public safety.
The screening exercise also includes drug-use detection within a three-month window, ensuring early identification of any history of substance use prior to employment.
“As regular road users, we understand our responsibility to society. We are committed to road safety, transparency, ethical conduct, and deploying comprehensive systems to mitigate incidents across the country,” Pathak concluded.