Ashaka Cement Limited, a subsidiary of HBM Nigeria Plc, has signed five-year Community Development Agreements (CDAs) with Funakaye and Maiganga communities in Funakaye and Akko Local Government Areas of Gombe State, committing to interventions in infrastructure, education, healthcare and economic empowerment.

The agreements, which cover 2026 to 2030, will provide a framework for the company’s development projects in its host communities, including agriculture, road rehabilitation, water supply, employment and security.

The signing ceremony, held at the Gombe State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, brought together government officials, community leaders, security agencies and representatives of the company.

Speaking, Ashaka Cement’s Managing Director, Alhaji Ibrahim Aminu, assured the communities that the company would implement the projects outlined in the agreements. He said the interventions would include agricultural support, youth and women empowerment, education sponsorships, solar-powered boreholes, road rehabilitation, and the construction of schools and clinics across the affected communities.

He also disclosed that HBM Nigeria Plc, has commenced a major expansion programme expected to increase the company’s production capacity to more than three times its current level.

The project is scheduled for commissioning in the first quarter of 2027 and is expected to create additional employment opportunities for residents of the host communities.

Gombe State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Sanusi Ahmed Pindiga, said the agreements would strengthen relations between the company and its host communities by establishing a structured mechanism for resolving disputes through dialogue.

He urged both parties to honour their commitments, stressing the importance of cooperation in ensuring the agreements deliver their intended benefits.

Pindiga also disclosed that Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya signed an executive order in August, to strengthen the monitoring of mining activities in the state. Under the order, mining and quarrying companies are required to maintain valid development agreements with their host communities.

Representing the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, Abimbola Adams, described the agreements as a partnership built on mutual trust and responsibility.

She urged Ashaka Cement to fulfil its obligations while encouraging the communities to sustain peaceful relations with the company.

Similarly, District Head, Atiku, Muhammad Ardo, commended both parties for resolving previous disagreements, expressing hope that the agreements would promote lasting peace and cooperation.

Chair, Maiganga Community, David Daniel, called for dialogue, respect for the rule of law and proper investigation of complaints arising between the company and residents. He urged community members to refrain from taking matters into their own hands, emphasising the need to resolve grievances through established channels.

The agreements are expected to provide a structured framework for delivering development projects, creating employment opportunities and resolving disputes between Ashaka Cement and its host communities. Their impact will depend on the effective implementation of the commitments by both parties and sustained engagement with residents.