Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State oversaw the signing of a historic Community Development Agreement (CDA) between Ashaka Cement Plc and host communities in Funakaye local government area. This milestone event, held at the Funakaye Council Secretariat on Tuesday, marked the first-ever CDA in the company’s 40-year history in the area,leadership report.
Represented by the commissioner for energy and mineral resources, Sanusi Ahmed Maidala, Governor Yahaya witnessed the signing where the company committed to invest N500 million within a specified timeframe.
The commissioner expressed delight at the signing, emphasizing the anticipated benefits for host communities. He assured diligent oversight to ensure the company fulfills all projects and programs outlined in the CDA. The immediate host communities of Ashaka, Bajoga, and Bage formally entered into a five-year CDA with Ashaka Cement, covering initiatives such as scholarships, training for local farmers, classroom construction, healthcare facility development, and water supply.
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Ibrahim Aminu, the managing director of Ashaka Cement Company, conveyed his satisfaction, reaffirming the company’s commitment to supporting the development of host communities. He acknowledged stakeholders’ support in fostering peaceful coexistence. Barr. Zubair Muhammad Umar, the Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General of Gombe State, highlighted the mandatory nature of CDAs for licensed mining companies, citing the Minerals and Mining Act. On behalf of host communities, Alhaji Bappah Jalo Bajoga, Chairman of the Community Development Association of Funakaye local government, appealed for the company’s compliance and assured support for implementing CDA projects and programs.
