Benue: The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has acknowledged the significant contributions made by Dangote Cement Plc in its host communities in Gboko, Benue State. At the inauguration of Dangote Cement’s water projects, scholarship awards, and youth skill acquisition program, the minister praised the company for its commitment to community development.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the minister, represented by Mrs. Adijatu Usman, an Assistant Director of Mines and Environmental Compliance in Benue, emphasized that Dangote Cement is fulfilling its responsibilities under the Community Development Agreement (CDA). The CDA mandates mining companies to reinvest part of their profits into host communities, thereby ensuring economic development and sustainability.
Dr. Alake highlighted the projects delivered by Dangote Cement, which include motorized and solar-powered boreholes, as part of the company’s efforts to address water scarcity in the region. He underscored the importance of these projects being seen as community-owned to ensure their longevity and continued impact.
Dr. Johnson Kor, Head of Social Performance at Dangote Cement Plant in Gboko, noted that the projects were targeted at communities facing challenges in accessing safe water. He revealed that the CDA is a five-year agreement, and the current projects represent the first phase, with plans to expand into electricity projects in the future.
Chief Kunav Anum, District Head of Mbaakpoghol-Mbatyu, expressed gratitude for the borehole provided by Dangote Cement, acknowledging the positive surprise it brought to the community. He reaffirmed the community’s support for the company’s initiatives.
A statement from Dangote Cement highlighted the increase in the scholarship fund to ?28,800,000.00, aimed at covering all six host communities. This expansion aligns with the company’s commitment to equity and shared benefits. Additionally, ongoing projects such as the Women Empowerment Programme, Farmers Empowerment Programme, and Youth Empowerment Programme continue to enhance livelihoods in the host communities.