So, get this – the minister of solid minerals development spilled the beans that a whopping 252 mining companies have signed Community Development Agreements (CDAs) with their host communities. These agreements basically make the companies responsible for providing social amenities like water, electricity, schools, and health centres to the communities. And that’s not all, they also have to offer scholarships to the locals. The minister let the cat out of the bag yesterday in Abuja during the Launch of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development’s Revised Community Development Agreement (CDA) Guidelines at the sidelines of the ongoing 2023 West African Mining Host Communities INDABA organized by Global Rights, a non-governmental organisation that advocates for sustainable justice.
The minister made it clear that mining projects can have a negative impact on the communities, so it’s only fair that they get something in return for the resources taken from their land. He even brought up the Niger Delta region as an example and warned that if the communities don’t get their fair share, they’ll kick up a fuss and might even resist the mining exploration, which could lead to the closure of activities in the mines.
He said, “The whole idea is that if the mining companies or operators extract minerals of economic value from the Community, then they have some obligations to protect and improve the welfare of the Community.” Basically, the aim is to improve the quality of life in every way possible, by supporting educational institutions, community programs, and infrastructure development like building roads, markets, hospitals, schools, and providing water and electricity. It’s all about making sure the community is taken care of.
The minister also mentioned that these agreements help to smoothen the relationships between the companies, the communities, the governments, and other stakeholders. They’re all about making sure that everyone benefits from the mining projects and that it’s sustainable in the long run.
He pointed out that these agreements are so important that the federal government made it mandatory in the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act (NMMA), 2007. So, it’s not just a suggestion – it’s the law. And the Ministry is keeping a close eye on companies to make sure they follow the rules.
But wait, there’s more! The permanent secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Matry Ogbe, mentioned that the Ministry had guidelines for CDAs back in 2014, but they needed a revamp. There were some gaps and complaints from the communities, so they decided to update the guidelines to meet global standards. Looks like they’re really serious about making sure the communities get what they deserve.