IN a bid to boost cement production in the country, Dangote Cement Factory has concluded arrangements to release six million tonnes (MT) of cement into the market in February 2011. Dr Ved Sarkari, the factory’s Director of Project told journalists at the factory in Ibese, Ogun State, that when in full production, the factory could bridge the gap of imported cement into the country.

The local demand of cement in 2010 is about 15 MT, while the local production is about 12 million tonnes leaving a difference of less than four million tonnes for imports

This prompted the Federal Government’s initiative to grant cement import licenses, as well as encourage local production of cement to phase out imports.

Sarkari said that the factory was part of the Dangote Group’s determination to enhance adequate cement production at affordable prices. Besides, he said the development was in line with the Federal Government policy of enhancing expansion and investment in cement and other sectors.

Sarkari assured that the factory would go a long way in creating jobs for the youth and improve wealth creation.

He maintained that the site has 92 per cent of limestone, 4 per cent of shale and 4 per cent laterite.

He added that gypsum would be imported to ensure production of quality cement for industrial and residential use.

“We are proud to highlight that all required raw materials except gypsum for producing cement are readily available in our Ibese mines at one location. This is one of the major advantages in selecting this location for the cement plant,’’ he said

Sarkari, who has worked in one of the largest India cement factory, said the site has 90 years life expectancy.

Sarkari said to ensure that the ultra modern cement plant installed capacity was optimally maximise, the company had constructed a gas pipeline of 22km to ensure constant supply of gas to the plant.

“In addition, three power plants with 37 megawatts capacity each.

“With the equipment, we can correct the mix of raw material up to 95 per cent at the mines itself, and auto sampling and correction resulting in consistency in product quality.

“Also, by using the latest and proven technologies, we can achieve a pollution free environment. Less fuel and power consumption due to high efficiency of the equipment,” he said

He said that the company had been able to achieve the minimum dust emission of 30 mg/Nm3 Max control.

He said that with the ongoing project and the expansion at the Obajana cement plant in Kogi State, Dangote Group would be producing several million tonnes of cement annually.

According to him,  the group will endeavor to be a leading example in the Nigerian industrial sector through its commitment to the industrial growth and transformation of the Nigerian industrial base.

“Dangote will ensure a mutually beneficial relationship between the host community and the company, as well as continue in investing in various community projects that will uplift the social and economic lives of the people.

`` Dangote Group will definitely impact on the host communities directly and the less privileged by establishing meaningful projects.”