At the Dangote Special Day observance during the 46th Kaduna International Trade Fair, Ms. Fatima Wali-Abdurrahman of the Dangote Group highlighted the crucial role of digital transformation in optimizing operational efficiency across diverse sectors.
She stated that their facilities are fully digitized, leveraging Central Control Rooms (CCRs) to minimize manual intervention in production. These CCRs function as central hubs aggregating data from multiple systems, facilitating real-time decision-making to improve safety, efficiency, and productivity.
Wali-Abdurrahman noted that Dangote’s facilities feature cutting-edge displays, dashboards, and user interfaces that enable operators to monitor real-time data from sensors, machinery, and software systems. This capability allows for thorough oversight of production processes, energy usage, traffic management, network security, and infrastructure performance.
She pointed out that Dangote’s integration of advanced digital technologies across its operations—including cement, sugar, salt, fertilizers, petrochemicals, and agriculture—has established the company as a frontrunner in several industries.
“We have digitized our manufacturing and sales processes by implementing automated and smart systems, particularly in our cement plants. At Dangote, we are committed to transforming our manufacturing operations through global best practices, ensuring maximum efficiency from production to sales,” she stated.
Wali-Abdurrahman also presented the company’s Distributor Management System (DMS), an innovative digital platform designed to simplify product ordering.
She emphasized the company's significant role in Nigeria's industrial growth, citing the Dangote Peugeot Automobile Nigeria (DPAN) plant in Kaduna. This facility possesses a daily production capacity of 120 vehicles and an annual output of 44,000 units. She stated that DPAN's assembly of globally recognized Peugeot models—such as the Landtrek pickup, 3008, 5008, and 508 GT—lessens reliance on imports and offers competitively priced, locally manufactured vehicles.
She elaborated that DPAN utilizes digital supply chain management to enable real-time monitoring of components and vehicle deliveries, thereby facilitating smooth trade operations across the country.
Acknowledging agriculture as a vital component of Kaduna’s economy, Wali-Abdurrahman stressed the necessity of effective transportation solutions to enhance productivity.
“The locally assembled Peugeot Landtrek pickup truck is designed to support farmers, agribusinesses, and traders in efficiently transporting goods across rural and urban areas. By producing these vehicles in Kaduna, DPAN strengthens the agricultural value chain, providing reliable, cost-effective transportation solutions,” she remarked.
Additionally, she pointed out Dangote Group’s significant investments in agriculture, especially in the areas of fertilizer production and rice processing.
“The Dangote Fertilizer Plant, the largest in Africa, has introduced digital soil-testing solutions and precision farming techniques to help farmers improve yield and efficiency,” she noted.
To encourage attendance at Dangote's trade fair pavilion, Wali-Abdurrahman highlighted the company's dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction. She emphasized the opportunity to examine Dangote's diverse product portfolio, encompassing sugar, cement, salt, fertilizer, and SinoTrucks, reiterating the company's commitment to superior customer experiences and market expansion.
The Kaduna Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (KADCCIMA) received commendation for its successful trade fair organization, highlighting its role in facilitating business development. The fair's theme, "Promoting Efficiency in Manufacturing, Trade, and Agriculture through Digital Transformation," directly supports Group President Aliko Dangote's vision: "Africa's future hinges on our capacity for innovation, local manufacturing, and wealth creation through industrialization."
She expressed gratitude to all participants and exhibitors, conveying confidence in the prospects for Nigerian industry. Concluding, she offered a closing statement: “Thank you all. Long live KADCCIMA, long live Kaduna State, and long live Nigeria!”