Dangote Cement Launches Safety FairPlay Initiative to Transform Workplace Safety at Ibese Plant

Dangote Cement Plc’s Ibese Plant in Ogun State has launched a Safety FairPlay Initiative aimed at driving behavioural change and fostering a strong safety culture among its employees. The programme, which is set to be rolled out across all Dangote Cement plants, represents a significant step in strengthening the company’s commitment to workplace safety.

The pilot launch of the group-wide initiative saw robust participation from both management and staff, highlighting a shared dedication to safer work practices.

Designed to create lasting behavioural and cultural change, the Safety FairPlay Initiative operates on an equitable and transparent framework that encourages safe conduct. The programme is built on three core pillars—Recognition, Correction (Coaching), and Discipline—rewarding positive safety behaviours, addressing at-risk actions consistently, and promoting open reporting of incidents, near-misses, and errors.

Speaking at the launch, Dangote Cement Technical Director, Mr Anandam Duraisamy, emphasised the strategic importance of the initiative and encouraged employees to champion a safety culture grounded in fairness, accountability, recognition, and continuous improvement.

Duraisamy said, “Safety FairPlay marks a defining moment in our journey toward building a workplace where safety is not just a policy, but a shared mindset—an everyday habit that defines who we are and how we work. We are here to launch an initiative that aims to transform not only what we do, but how we think, act, and respond when it comes to safety.

“Safety FairPlay is about building trust, consistency, and accountability in how we manage safety. When people know that safe behaviour is recognised, risky actions are fairly addressed, and everyone is treated equitably, safety becomes a shared responsibility and a true part of our culture.

“This initiative is about behavioural and cultural change. True safety excellence goes beyond equipment, procedures, or compliance; it begins with people—our attitudes, our choices, and our willingness to look out for one another. Every incident prevented, every risk spotted, and every safe action taken strengthens our organisation. And that strength comes from you—from each member of our workforce embracing safety as a personal responsibility and a collective value.”

Also addressing the gathering, Ibese Plant Head of Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE), Mr. Elvis Akalusi, commended Dangote Cement management for spearheading the programme and praised employees for their enthusiastic support.

He added, “The Safety FairPlay Initiative will be fully embedded into the plant’s daily operations, with the full collaboration of all Heads of Departments. This initiative will provide the tools, coaching, recognition, and accountability needed to help each of us make safer decisions. But its success depends on our shared commitment—our courage to consistently do the right thing, even when no one is watching.

Let us approach this new chapter with open minds and a determination to improve. Let us build a culture where speaking up is encouraged, learning is continuous, and mistakes become opportunities to grow—not reasons for fear.”

With the introduction of Safety FairPlay, Dangote Cement Ibese Plant reinforces its position as a safety-driven operation, committed to protecting its workforce, safeguarding assets, and ensuring long-term operational sustainability.