By Edem Ekpo
In a major boost to educational development in Cross River State, Lafarge Africa has donated two modern, fully equipped libraries to secondary schools within its Mfamosing host communities.
The handover ceremonies took place recently at Obutong Comprehensive High School in Obutong community and Government Secondary School, Akwa Ikot Effanga, both located in Akpabuyo Local Government Area.
Speaking at the events, Mr. Abiodun Akingbade, who represented the Plant Manager of Lafarge Africa’s Mfamosing Plant, Milad Hanna, said the gesture was part of the company’s enduring commitment to enhancing learning infrastructure and empowering youth through education.
“These library projects reflect our commitment to listening and responding to what really matters to our host communities,” Hanna stated in his message. “We undertook these projects to give children better access to educational tools that can shape their future.”
On behalf of the Cross River State Commissioner for Education, Sen. (Dr.) Stephen Odey, the Director of Policy and Higher Education, Dr. Moses Agboreyo, commended Lafarge Africa for its consistent investment in the state’s education sector. He called on traditional rulers and community stakeholders to take ownership of the facilities and ensure their long-term preservation.
Also addressing attendees at the Obutong commissioning, Mr. Inyang Bassey, Communications & Public Affairs Manager at Lafarge Africa, said the initiative forms part of the company’s broader corporate social responsibility strategy to promote inclusive, sustainable development.
“We believe that knowledge is a cornerstone for building thriving communities. This initiative is not only a contribution to academic excellence but also a reinforcement of the value of community partnership,” Bassey noted.
The donated libraries are expected to greatly enhance learning experiences for students and teaching effectiveness in both schools, offering improved access to books, educational materials, and a conducive reading environment.