Dangote Cement Plc said on Thursday it is tightening road safety standards for its truck drivers across Africa, with its chief executive telling staff that no delivery is worth a human life.
Group Managing Director Arvind Pathak made the remarks at the company’s 2026 Drivers Safety Retreat at its Obajana plant in Kogi State, themed “Think Safety, Act Safely.” The event brought together drivers, transport personnel and management representatives.
Pathak said driver safety ranks above operational targets and commercial considerations. He told participants that they represent the Dangote brand on highways and are responsible for their own lives and those of other road users.
“We can replace a truck; we cannot replace a human being,” he said.
He urged drivers to avoid speeding, fatigue and other dangerous practices, saying professional competence should be judged by safe arrival rather than journey time. “If you are tired, stop and rest,” he said.
Pathak said the company, which describes itself as the largest cement producer in Nigeria and Africa, would keep investing in drivers’ welfare, training and safer transport operations.
Murilo Silva, the company’s Head of Transport, cautioned against reckless driving and proxy driving, in which someone other than the assigned driver operates a vehicle. He said such conduct would not be tolerated and urged drivers to take personal responsibility for making Nigerian roads safer.
Ebere Okonkwo, Group Head of Transport Health, Safety and Environment for Pan Africa Nigeria, said the retreat was necessary to help drivers stay safe and avoid accidents that could lead to dismissal. She said management monitors drivers’ movements wherever they travel.
During an interactive session, drivers raised concerns including the rising cost of living, work-related expenses and the need for timely communication of drug test results. Several who spoke praised the company’s investment in their welfare and pledged to maintain high safety standards.
The company also recognised outstanding personnel for safety performance. Ten drivers received awards, and Ismaila Suleiman was named the best-performing driver for the year under review.
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