The federal government has issued a December 31 deadline to all mining and quarry companies to conclude Community Development Agreements (CDAs) with their host communities.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake made this known following a performance review of CDA compliance this year in Abuja.
The Minister who expressed concern over the wide gap between over 2,300 mineral licences issued in 2023 and 2024, and just 342 signed CDAs so far explained that out of 74 new mineral titles issued in the first half of the year, only 24 CDAs were signed.
Dr. Alake emphasized that mining without engaging local communities is unacceptable, stressing that companies that fail to sign CDAs by the deadline risk having their licences revoked and may be forced to pay reparations
“Responsible mining is our standard, No community should be shortchanged or excluded,” the Minister stated
He also warned traditional rulers and community leaders not to trade away their people’s benefits for personal gifts or shoddy contracts.
He stressed that three companies, Istanbul, Venus, and Cornerstone, were recently shut down for failing to conclude CDAs, a move he said shows it’s no longer business as usual.
Dr. Alake encouraged communities to set up strong negotiation teams and demand legacy projects that benefit youths, women, and the wider community.
