Host Community Pledged Support for Lafarge-Holcim’s Operations

Bassey Inyang in Calabar

Elders and youths from the host communities of Lafarge Holcim Plc in Cross River State have assured the management of the cement manufacturing company of their support for the smooth operations and activities its production plant in Mfamosing, in Akamkpa Local Government Areas.

The community leaders stated this yesterday in Calabar where they addressed a press conference.
Presenting their position on the operations of the company which is located in Akamkpa, and Akpabuyo Local Government Areas, Mr. Ekeng Effiong, who led other concerned elders, and youths from the area, said that the company has been engaging youths in the area in most of their activities.

Effiong who is from Akpabuyo said youths of the catchment communities of Lafarge-Holcim have been very peaceful since the company began operations.

However, he stated that the company can still do more for the people of the community.
“We will continue to support the progress of the plant because we are also direct beneficiaries of what is going on in the company.
“But, we will not hesitate to press for what is rightly ours because our young graduates need to be gainfully employed and be part of the activities in the company.

“We are not confrontational, we will continue to promote business activities in the area with a view for other companies to come in and invest,’’ Effiong said.

Effiong also urged the management of the company not to relent in providing social amenities for their host communities.
A youth leader from Akamkpa, Mr. Festus Bassey, said youths in the area were not violent, adding that they will continue to engage the company in meaningful dialogue with a view to meet all their demands.
“We want employment for our youths. Youths from both communities are very peaceful and ready to corporate with the management of Lafarge.

“We are looking forward to Lafarge management to grant our rights by employing our youths, giving us contracts, building schools and providing portable water amongst others,’’ Bassey said.