By Prosper Mene
Lafarge Africa Plc has once again placed women at the heart of its sustainability agenda, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to gender inclusion and transformative development during the 2026 International Women’s Day celebrations.
The leading provider of innovative and sustainable building solutions in Nigeria commemorated the global observance with a high-impact event themed “The Give to Gain Blueprint: Investing in Women to Build Sustainable Impact.” The gathering brought together female professionals, industry leaders, internal stakeholders, and changemakers for candid dialogues on economic inclusion, workplace equity, and the pivotal role women play in driving progress across industries and communities.
Speaking at the event, Viola Graham-Douglas, Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainable Development Director at Lafarge Africa Plc, underscored the strategic and moral imperative of investing in women. “Investing in women is not just a social responsibility—it is a smart business priority that delivers measurable, sustainable returns for organisations and society at large,” she said.
The company highlighted its ongoing practical initiatives that translate commitment into action, including:The Green Women’s Network, which empowers women with skills and opportunities in environmentally sustainable practices.
The Female Tilers and Block Laying Training Programme (under the BuildHer initiative), which recently graduated 100 women equipped with marketable construction skills, opening doors to economic independence in a traditionally male-dominated sector.
Broader efforts in female driver empowerment and other diversity-focused programmes aimed at closing skills gaps and promoting inclusive growth.
Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Lolu Akinyemi, reinforced the company’s vision: “When we give women the tools, platforms, and support to thrive, everyone gains—stronger families, resilient communities, and a more sustainable future.”Lafarge Africa’s approach reflects a growing recognition that empowering women accelerates broader development goals, from climate action and economic resilience to innovation in the built environment.
By fostering leadership, skills development, and equitable opportunities, the company is not only advancing gender parity but also strengthening its contribution to Nigeria’s long-term sustainable development.
As the world continues to grapple with intersecting challenges of inequality, climate change, and economic uncertainty, Lafarge Africa’s “Give to Gain” message sends a clear message: deliberate investment in women remains one of the most effective levers for building enduring impact.
The company pledged to deepen these efforts in the coming years, expanding reach and creating more pathways for women to lead and succeed—both within Lafarge and across the wider society.
