In a move lauded by community leaders and government officials, Dangote Cement Plc's Obajana Plant and the Jakura Community have officially signed a five-year Community Development Agreement (CDA).
The historic pact, sealed on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, sets the stage for the company to implement a series of mutually agreed-upon social projects aimed at improving the lives of local residents.
The signing ceremony, held at the Obajana plant, was a moment of jubilation for both parties.
The CDA is one of many such agreements Dangote Cement has with its host communities, serving as a structured pathway for the transfer of impactful socioeconomic development programs.
Speaking at the event, Dangote Cement’s Plant Director, Engr. Azad Nawabuddin, who was represented by Engr. John Gwong, Chief General Manager, Production, stated that the agreement is a direct fulfilment of the provisions of Nigeria’s Minerals and Mining Act of 2007 and the Minerals and Mining Regulation of 2011.
He emphasised the company’s commitment to the development and well-being of the Jakura community, adding, "For us as a company, we believe in the mantra, 'good neighbourliness is good business,' hence we do everything conceivable to maintain a harmonious relationship with the communities where we operate.”
Nawabuddin also called for the support of state and local governments in implementing the developmental programs outlined in the agreement.
A dedicated governing structure will be established to oversee the implementation of the CDA's terms.
Mr Wakeel Olayiwola, Group Head of Social Performance at Dangote Cement, confirmed that the agreement was developed following the stipulated CDA guidelines.
Despite the year drawing to a close, he assured the community that the company would begin implementing the projects immediately to foster a strong company-community relationship.
Mr James Adenuga, Group Head of Health, Safety, Social, Environment & Sustainability at Dangote Industries Ltd (DIL), reinforced the company’s commitment, describing the CDA as "the right thing to do to smooth the company’s social license to operate."
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr Dele Alake, who was represented by Mrs Bimbo Olaoye, praised Dangote Cement for being a responsible corporate citizen and urged the community to continue coexisting peacefully with the company.
She affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring the company enjoys a smooth operational environment, which in turn supports job creation and social programs.
Other notable attendees from various government bodies also shared this sentiment.
On behalf of the Jakura community, the Obaro of Jakura, HRH Usman Ajibola Adoga, expressed his profound joy, calling the agreement a "dream come true."
He remarked that "the Jakura community will never be the same again" and commended Dangote Cement for its consistent interventions in communities across Kogi State.
Adding to the positive remarks, HRH Frederick Balogun, the Olu of Apata, described Aliko Dangote as a "God-sent" leader and promised that the communities would continue to be peaceful ambassadors for the Dangote Group.
A representative from the Lokoja Local Government Area, Danjuma Muhammad Abubakar, echoed this appreciation, stating that the people of Kogi would remain ambassadors for Mr Aliko Dangote due to his numerous impactful interventions.
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