Women-on-Wheels: Lafarge Africa Reaffirms Commitment to Gender Inclusion with Graduation of 17 Female Truck Drivers
Lafarge Africa Plc, a prominent provider of innovative and sustainable building solutions, celebrated the graduation of 17 female truck drivers from its Women-on-Wheels (WoW) initiative at the Lafarge Driving Institute in Ewekoro, Ogun State. This event reinforces the company’s ongoing commitment to gender inclusion within the logistics sector.
The Women-on-Wheels initiative aims to promote diversity and inclusion in the transport and logistics industry by equipping women with the necessary skills to operate heavy-duty vehicles safely and efficiently. Attendees at the graduation ceremony included representatives from government agencies, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and community leaders.
Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, Group Managing Director and CEO of Lafarge Africa Plc, expressed the significance of the initiative, stating, “At Lafarge Africa, we continuously invest in areas that empower women. The Women-on-Wheels program is a transformative effort within the transport industry, enhancing our logistics value chain with certified female drivers.”
Osaze Aghatise, Logistics Director at Lafarge Africa, elaborated on the initiative’s broader implications, noting, “By encouraging female drivers, we are advancing gender equality and representation in our industry. The inclusion of more female drivers not only enhances safety on the roads but also strengthens our operations.”
The WoW program provides comprehensive training in collaboration with accredited driving partners and safety organizations, ensuring that the new graduates are well-prepared for their roles. Honourable Adijat Adeleye-Oladapo, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development in Ogun State, commended Lafarge for their commitment, stating, “This initiative empowers women economically and promotes gender equality in Nigeria.”
Mr. Adebola Sofela, representing the Commissioner of Industry, Trade & Investment in Ogun State, praised Lafarge Africa’s role in creating economic opportunities for women, while Akinwumi Fasakin, Sector Commander of the Ogun State Command FRSC, recognized the participants’ achievements as a testament to the company’s dedication to diversity.
Among the graduates, Shotayo Olajumoke, Adibe Favour, and Yaya Rukayat Olabisi were honored for their exceptional performance throughout the training. Adibe Favour expressed her gratitude, stating, “This opportunity has transformed my life. I am proud to be part of this initiative, demonstrating that women can excel in the transport industry.”
Since its inception in 2019, the Women-on-Wheels initiative has trained and certified over 100 female truck drivers, significantly contributing to safer and more inclusive transport operations. With the recent graduates, the program continues to break barriers and set industry standards.