The Riruwai Community in Kano State has finalised a landmark Community Development Agreement (CDA) with Century Mining Company Ltd (CMC), paving the way for multi-million naira investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and employment opportunities over the next five years.
The agreement was concluded at the Kano State Ministry of Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, under the supervision of the Commissioner, Alhaji Hamza Safiyanu, who also signed the document.
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Present at the signing were the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Mansur Yakubu FNSE, directors of the ministry, representatives of CMC led by Mr. Mukesh, and key members of the CDA Committee.
Speaking on behalf of the CDA Committee, Chairman Engr. Usman Sule Riruwai, FNSE, described the agreement as a milestone achievement after months of negotiations between the community and the company.
He added that the document has been forwarded to the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals for verification, after which an official signing ceremony will be held in Riruwai before being presented to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development in Abuja.
Key projects in the five-year CDA include:
Construction of a 2-million-litre per day water treatment plant with storage and distribution facilities.
Rehabilitation of the 20km Riruwai–Doka Road with laterite and gravel compaction.
Construction of a multi-purpose town hall and vocational skills centre.
Provision of ₦3 million annual scholarships for indigenes studying science, engineering, and medical courses.
Supply of ₦1 million worth of essential drugs monthly to the community health centre for five years.
Employment of 15 science teachers for local schools.
Renovation of schools in the community with ₦16 million allocated annually.
Provision of science and laboratory equipment for two senior secondary schools: G.G.S.S Riruwai and G.S.S Riruwai.
Installation of 20 additional solar units and electricity supply to public institutions such as mosques, schools, and health centres.
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Reserved employment quota for Riruwai indigenes: 50% semi-skilled, 40% skilled, and 30% managerial staff.
Allocation of ₦100 million in local contracts and supplies to the host community.
Payment of compensation for structures affected by mining blasts after due investigation.
Periodic water and air quality checks to monitor environmental impact.
Engr. Usman Sule assured residents that a strong implementation and monitoring committee, as required by the Mining Act of 2007, would oversee the execution of the projects.
He also praised the people of Riruwai for their patience, support, and prayers throughout the negotiation process.
“The company has also promised to attend to emergencies as they arise. We are determined to ensure the total implementation of this agreement for the benefit of our people,” he said.
Commissioner Safiyanu commended both parties for reaching consensus and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to ensuring that mining activities bring tangible benefits to host communities.
The formal signing ceremony in Riruwai is expected to attract top officials from the state and federal governments, community leaders, and representatives of development partners.