Musa Na Allah, Sokoto
On Saturday, BUA Cement Company officially signed a five-year development roadmap to uplift host communities in Sokoto State.
The signing ceremony, which took place on Saturday at the company’s headquarters, marks a significant milestone in BUA Cement’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and inclusive growth.
The Managing Director of BUA Cement, Engineer Yusuf Binji, signed the document on behalf of the company. Representing the communities were three prominent traditional rulers: Sarkin Rafin Gumbi, Sama’ila Abdulkadir Mujeli, Ardon Wajeke, Mailato Gumbi and Ubandoman Arkilla, Aliyu Hassan Liman.
“This is more than a document it is a commitment to human capital development, infrastructure improvement, and sustainable livelihoods for our host communities, Binji stated during the event.
According to him, the five year plan covers key areas including education, healthcare, youth empowerment, environmental sustainability, and infrastructural development.
“We understand that our success is deeply tied to the wellbeing of the communities around us. That’s why this roadmap is community driven, realistic, and impact focused,” he emphasized.
Sarkin Rafin Gumbi, Sama’ila Abdulkadir Mujeli, who spoke on behalf of the traditional leaders, expressed appreciation for BUA’s dedication to community welfare.
“We are grateful for this partnership. It is the first of its kind in our region, and we believe it will bring tangible benefits to our people,” he said.
He added that the communities would ensure accountability and collaboration in implementing the development projects outlined in the roadmap.
Ardon Wajeke, Mailato Gumbi, also commended the initiative, stating that the roadmap represents a beacon of hope for youth and vulnerable groups in the area.
The Ubandoman Arkilla, Aliyu Hassan Liman, described the development pact as a historic moment for traditional institutions and private-sector collaboration.
The roadmap, jointly developed through community consultations and stakeholder engagement, includes the construction of boreholes, school renovations, vocational training centers, and mobile health clinics.
“True development happens when the people are involved, heard, and empowered. That is what we aim to achieve,” Binji noted.
Civil society groups and community-based organizations present at the ceremony also lauded the plan, calling it a model for corporate community relations in Nigeria.
With the signing of the agreement, implementation is expected to commence immediately, with quarterly reviews to track progress and make adjustments where necessary.
As Sokoto State looks ahead, the collaboration between BUA Cement and its host communities stands as a shining example of how business can be a powerful force for social good.
