Stakeholders have highlighted the need for a review of the Community Development Agreement (CDA) enacted nine years ago, as it no longer effectively serves the purpose of mining communities.

At the unveiling ceremony of the Reviewed Guidelines in Abuja, participants emphasized that the previous arrangements involved only a few individuals in signing the agreement, whereas the revised document aims to engage all stakeholders.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, emphasized that every community possesses one or more minerals in their domain, and often, investors and operators neglect their social responsibility to the host communities. Alake stated that the reviewed CDA addresses the shortcomings of the previous version, benefiting both communities and states while increasing revenue for the federal government.

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr Rose Ogbe, clarified that the document is a statutory provision ensuring the transfer of socio-economic benefits to mining communities, outlining obligations for the Mineral Title Holder within their area of operations.

Executive Director of Centre LSD, Monday Osasah discussed the purpose and significance of the agreements, expressing confidence that they would address various concerns raised by stakeholders in the mineral sector. Osasah acknowledged the Centre’s role in developing and building capacity for individuals and corporate bodies, particularly in the area of negotiations and leadership related to the Petroleum Industry Act.

Ecosphere Consulting Limited’s Dr. Damilola Adesina urged all stakeholders in the sector to appreciate Centre LSD for identifying challenges in the previous agreement and incorporating emerging issues to ensure a more effective transfer of mining benefits to the people.