LADOL donates against COVID-19, urges support for SMEs, employers of 80% Nigeria’s workforce

Samson Echenim

As the world struggles to end the COVID-19 pandemic, two facts remain top of eventualities when the earth becomes healed of the dreaded novel virus: many small and medium scale businesses (SMEs) will fizzle out, leading to a massive job losses that will create new concerns.

Consequently, the LADOL Free Zone, Nigeria’s largest indigenous oil and gas logistics provider has emphasised the need for local production and support of local companies as the firm says “over 80 percent of the jobs in Nigeria come from Small and Medium Sized Enterprises, and they must be supported to get through this pandemic.”

Ladi Jadesimi, chairman of LADOL made the call while responding to inquiries about the company’s contributions to the private sector collaboration against the COVID-19.
He said LADOL had made a monetary donation to the Nigerian government to support the fight against the virus which has killed 10 and infected 325 people as at Monday (today) in the country.
“Nigerians and all Africans need to be patient and preserver – we can get through this together. At 78 years of age, I have seen Nigeria come through many challenges, but this is an exceptional one. However, I know that Nigerians have the fortitude to triumph through adversity,” said Jadesimi.
He declined to give the amount donated by the company, but said the financial donation had been made to Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as part of its corporate social responsibility.

Jadesimi stated that the company joined the coalition because they believe this government is on the right track and is handling this crisis well.

“In fact, as confirmed by the United Nations, the Government of Nigeria’s response has been one of the best in the world,” he said.

He also confirmed that in addition to this donation LADOL is providing food and PPE for their staff and the local community – with food and protective kits being distributed to the local community.

“We want to support the local communities to ensure that they can stay at home and follow governments advice. I wish that  all Nigerians can come together at this time and support each other so we can come through this stronger than ever.

“One thing I have learned building LADOL is that patience and perseverance are needed to succeed – private sector would need to coordinate closely with government and we should understand that our support will be needed for the long-term – as getting through this crisis will be a marathon not a sprint,” he said.

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