A scheduled stakeholder meeting between the Minister for Trade and Industry, K.T. Hammond, and representatives of cement manufacturers on Monday, July 1, 2024, was boycotted by the industry reps. The reason for their absence was the unexpected presence of media personnel at the Ministry’s premises.
The cement manufacturers’ representatives, comprising GHACEM, Dangote, CBI, Cimaf, and Diamond Cement, had agreed to a closed-door meeting with the Minister for Trade and Industry, K.T. Hammond. However, upon discovering that the media was present at the Ministry’s premises, they decided to boycott the meeting, citing the initial understanding of a private and exclusive discussion.
Despite the boycott by the cement manufacturers, Minister K.T. Hammond proceeded with the meeting, insisting that the media’s presence was necessary. He addressed the journalists, emphasizing his commitment to protecting the interests of the state, even if it meant going against the wishes of the industry representatives. By doing so, he effectively prioritized transparency and public accountability over private discussions with the manufacturers.