In a significant move to bolster community development, BUA Cement Company has signed a landmark five-year agreement outlining its social responsibility initiatives in Sokoto State, Nigeria. This roadmap is designed to guide the company’s community development programs, ensuring they are tailored to meet the needs of their host communities. The agreement was signed by BUA’s Managing Director, Yusuf Binji, alongside three traditional rulers representing their respective communities in Sokoto.
The signing ceremony marked a crucial step towards fostering stronger relationships between the company, local communities, and government authorities. According to Binji, who was represented by Director Plant Operations, Bashar Aminu, the document was carefully crafted with input from host communities and guided by state and local government officials, as well as the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development. The agreement serves as a blueprint for people-oriented projects and programs aimed at improving the quality of life for community members.
The community development initiatives are comprehensive, covering a range of critical areas. Sada Suleiman, Assistant Director of Administration and Corporate Affairs, highlighted that these initiatives include healthcare support for 18 Primary Healthcare Centres, student scholarship schemes, vocational training programs, and education infrastructure development. Additionally, the company plans to establish a technical college, provide electricity installations, potable water, and construct numerous road projects across the communities. Notably, the agreement also ensures that eligible local contractors will be prioritized for the company’s services, with a quota of 35% employment opportunities reserved for indigenous community members during recruitment exercises.
The annual distribution of cement for public place repairs is also a key component of the agreement, demonstrating the company’s commitment to maintaining and improving community infrastructure. Commissioner of Solid Minerals, Abdulkadir Maccido, praised the event as a landmark achievement, signaling the state’s openness to investments that benefit local communities. Furthermore, Commissioner for Justice, Nasir Binji, commended the efforts and emphasized the importance of proper implementation to maximize benefits for the affected communities.
The presence of high-ranking officials, including the Chairman of Wamakko Local Government Area, Umar Dundaye, and representatives from the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, underscored the significance of this partnership. This collaborative approach aims to not only enhance the socio-economic conditions of the host communities but also set a precedent for corporate social responsibility in the region. As BUA Cement Company embarks on this five-year journey, the focus will be on delivering tangible benefits that improve the lives of community members, fostering a spirit of cooperation, and contributing to the sustainable development of Sokoto State.
