In a move to foster development and strengthen relations with its host communities, Dangote Cement PLC, Obajana Plant, on Wednesday signed its first Community Development Agreement (CDA) with the Jakura Community in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The signing ceremony, held at the Obajana Plant, was graced by traditional rulers, community leaders, government officials, and representatives of Dangote Cement.
Welcoming participants to the event, the Plant Director, Engineer Panjala Spreedhar, represented by the chief General Manager of Operations, Engineer John Gwom, said the agreement was in line with Section 116 of the Minerals and Mining Act 2007 and Section 193 of the Minerals and Mining Regulation 2011 of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He noted that the CDA would serve as a roadmap for mutual growth, development, and peaceful coexistence between the company and the Jakura community.
“Today’s occasion is not only a demonstration of our compliance with regulatory provisions as a socially responsible corporate organization but also a show of our commitment to the development and overall well-being of our host communities.”
According to him, the CDA covers key areas such as education support through scholarships for indigent students, healthcare improvement, potable water provision, rural electrification, annual road maintenance, and other social amenities aimed at improving the quality of life in Jakura Community.
He further explained that the agreement establishes a consultative framework for engagement, grievance management, and responsibilities for both the plant and the community, ensuring mutual understanding and collaboration.
Spreedhar commended the representatives of Jakura Community for their dedication throughout the negotiation process and expressed optimism that the agreement would open doors to lasting peace and accelerated development.
He also appreciated the Federal Ministry of Solid Mineral Development for its guidance and the State and Local Government authorities for their expected support in implementing the projects outlined in the agreement.
In a message to the occasion, Chairman of Lokoja Local Government Area, Comrade Abdullahi Adamu, represented by the Secretary of Lokoja Local Government, Abubakar Danjuma Muhammed, thanked Allah for witnessing the historic ceremony and assured the council’s full support toward the success of the program.
Delivering the goodwill message of the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake; the Community Development Agreement Desk Officer of the Ministry, Mrs. Abimbola Olayioye commended Dangote Cement PLC for its commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence and sustainable development in host communities.
The Minister noted that the CDA aligns with the Federal Government’s vision of ensuring that mining activities benefit local communities and pledged the ministry’s continued support for initiatives that promote mutual growth and development.
On her part, the Chairman, Kogi State House of Assembly Committee on Solid Minerals and Member Representing Ijumu Constituency, Hon. Ishaya Omotayo Adeleye, said as legislators, their vision aligns with that of Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, in promoting sustainable community development.
Speaking also the Olu Apata, Oba (Dr) Fredrick Balogun JP, in Oworo, who referred to Dangote as a rescuer and a promise keeper, expressed confidence in the ability of Dangote to keep to the scope of the agreement.
The elated Obaro of Jakura Community, Oba Usman Ajibola, in his remarks, appreciated God Almighty for witnessing the landmark event, noting that with the signing of the agreement, Jakura Community would experience major transformations in electrification, road construction, and empowerment initiatives planned by Dangote Cement.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Jakura Community Development Signing Ceremony and Oluwa of Jakura, Chief Bomigbade Ajiboye, described the day as a milestone in the history of Jakura Community, giving glory to God for the success of the program.
He commended the youths for their peaceful conduct and thanked the management of Dangote Cement for their cooperation toward the realization of the project.
The event also featured a safety induction session for all participants, conducted by the Head of Safety Department of Dangote Cement Plant, emphasizing the company’s commitment to workplace and community safety.
The signing of the CDA marks a new era of partnership between Dangote Cement PLC and Jakura Community, setting the stage for developmental initiatives that will benefit present and future generations.
