President Boko has called on members of parliament to initiate a debate on how communities can directly benefit from large-scale projects developed in their areas.
Speaking during debates on the Ministry of Minerals & Energy’s budget allocations in March President Boko emphasized the importance of engaging in transformative discussions around this issue.
Boko responded to concerns raised by Members of Parliament about neglected communities living near major economic activities such as mining operations and large business ventures.
“The core of this discussion is that communities are often displaced, which puts them at a disadvantage,” said Boko. “What compensation, legislative or otherwise, can we provide for these communities? We cannot rely on corporate social responsibility (CSR) as the answer; it is irresponsible to do so because CSR is optional and dependent on the company’s discretion.”
Boko further explained, “For instance, if a solar power plant or solar farm is set up, it requires significant land from the surrounding communities. What is the stake of these communities in this venture? Should we not start debating whether they are entitled to royalties or, at the very least, an equity stake in these projects? The loss of their land and other amenities should grant them a quantifiable share in the benefits.”
“This is the debate I want to hear from members of parliament,” he continued. “Let’s engage in this dialogue and then return to the law. If the law stands as an obstacle, then it must be changed to support this proposition”.
