In a significant step toward enhancing community relations and promoting sustainable development, Dangote Cement PLC’s Obajana Plant formalized its inaugural Community Development Agreement (CDA) with the Jakura Community, located in Lokoja Local Government Area, Kogi State, on Wednesday.
The agreement signing took place at the Obajana Plant and was attended by traditional leaders, community representatives, government officials, and Dangote Cement delegates.
Opening the event, the Plant Director, Engineer Panjala Spreedhar, was represented by the Chief General Manager of Operations, Engineer John Gwom, who highlighted that the CDA aligns with the provisions of Section 116 of the Minerals and Mining Act 2007 and Section 193 of the Minerals and Mining Regulation 2011 of Nigeria.
He emphasized that this agreement serves as a strategic framework designed to foster shared growth, development, and harmonious relations between the company and the Jakura community.
“This occasion not only reflects our adherence to legal requirements as a responsible corporate entity but also underscores our dedication to uplifting the welfare of our host communities,” he stated.
The CDA outlines several priority areas, including educational assistance through scholarships for underprivileged students, enhancement of healthcare services, provision of clean drinking water, rural electrification projects, routine road maintenance, and other social infrastructure improvements aimed at elevating living standards within Jakura Community.
Additionally, the agreement establishes a structured platform for ongoing dialogue, grievance resolution, and clearly defines the roles and obligations of both the plant and the community, ensuring transparent and cooperative engagement.
Spreedhar praised the Jakura Community representatives for their active participation during negotiations and expressed confidence that this partnership would pave the way for enduring peace and accelerated socio-economic progress.
He also extended gratitude to the Federal Ministry of Solid Mineral Development for their advisory role, as well as to the State and Local Government authorities for their anticipated support in executing the projects outlined in the agreement.
Representing the Lokoja Local Government Chairman, Comrade Abdullahi Adamu, the Secretary of Lokoja Local Government, Abubakar Danjuma Muhammed, expressed thanks to Allah for the successful signing and pledged the council’s unwavering support to ensure the program’s success.
Delivering the goodwill message from the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, Mrs. Abimbola Olayioye, the Community Development Agreement Desk Officer, lauded Dangote Cement PLC for its proactive role in nurturing peaceful coexistence and sustainable growth within host communities.
The Minister highlighted that the CDA is in harmony with the Federal Government’s objective to ensure mining activities yield tangible benefits for local populations and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to backing initiatives that encourage shared prosperity.
Hon. Ishaya Omotayo Adeleye, Chairman of the Kogi State House of Assembly Committee on Solid Minerals and representative for Ijumu Constituency, remarked that the legislative agenda aligns with Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo’s vision for sustainable community advancement.
Oba (Dr) Fredrick Balogun JP, the Olu Apata of Oworo, praised Dangote Cement as a dependable benefactor and expressed trust in the company’s adherence to the terms of the agreement.
The Obaro of Jakura Community, Oba Usman Ajibola, expressed heartfelt gratitude to God for the milestone event, noting that the agreement would catalyze significant improvements in electrification, road infrastructure, and empowerment programs spearheaded by Dangote Cement.
Chief Bomigbade Ajiboye, Chairman of the Jakura Community Development Signing Ceremony and Oluwa of Jakura, described the day as a historic landmark for the community, giving thanks to God for the successful collaboration.
He also commended the youth for their peaceful demeanor throughout the process and acknowledged Dangote Cement’s management for their cooperative spirit in bringing the project to fruition.
The ceremony included a safety orientation led by the Head of Safety Department at Dangote Cement Plant, underscoring the company’s unwavering commitment to ensuring safety both within the workplace and the surrounding community.
The execution of this CDA heralds a new chapter of partnership between Dangote Cement PLC and the Jakura Community, laying a solid foundation for developmental projects that will benefit current residents and future generations alike.
