Dangote Industries Limited (DIL) has firmly denied recent claims linking it to child labour in coal mining activities in Kogi State.
The allegations surfaced in an online report by The African Angle, which DIL has labelled “malicious” and “entirely without merit.”
In a statement issued by the Group Chief Branding and Corporate Communication Officer, Mr Anthony Chiejina, the company clarified that Dangote Coal Mines Limited ceased all mining operations in Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State in March 2022.
The company explained that this move was part of a broader strategic realignment, with all coal mining activities transferred to Ogbadibo and Okpokwu LGAs in Benue State. DIL emphasised that its operations fully comply with regulatory and environmental standards.
“For the record, Dangote Coal Mines Limited had stopped mining operations in Ankpa LGA of Kogi State since March 2022. Pursuant to our strategic operational realignment, the company had moved its mining activities to Ogbadibo and Okpokwu Local Government Areas of Benue State, in full compliance with all regulatory requirements,” Chiejina stated.
Describing the report as an attempt to smear the company’s reputation, DIL urged the public to disregard the false claims.
“We urge the public to disregard the said mischievous report, which at best appears to be a feeble attempt to smear our organisation’s reputation, which we hold dear in the interest of our internal and external stakeholders,” the company noted.
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DIL reaffirmed its adherence to internal governance standards and relevant industry guidelines across all operations, highlighting its commitment to transparency, safety, and social responsibility.
The company also stated that it will initiate legal action to address what it described as “unprofessional media conduct” and to prevent the spread of future misinformation.
Dangote Industries Limited is one of Africa’s largest and most diversified business conglomerates, with interests in cement, sugar, salt, fertiliser, and more. The company is committed to sustainable business practices and continues to play a key role in industrial development across the continent.
