The Federal Government has reaffirmed the reappointment of Hajiya Fatima Umaru Shinkafi as the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF), stating it aligns with the agency’s foundational laws and has no term limit restrictions.
In a statement issued by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the reappointment was confirmed to have followed due process in accordance with the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act (NMMA) 2007.
Amidst the controversy surrounding the renewal of Shinkafi’s appointment, the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development clarified the legal basis for the decision. Speaking on Monday in Abuja, the ministry’s Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations, Mrs. Ekwugha Chinwe, stressed that the NMMA does not limit the tenure of the SMDF’s Chief Executive Officers.
“Our attention has been drawn to misinformation making the rounds regarding the reappointment of Hajia Fatima Shinkafi,” the ministry’s statement noted. “The approval, done weeks ago, followed due process and aligns with the extant laws governing the agency, as well as the NMMA 2007.”
The ministry cited Section 35(2) of the NMMA 2007, which provides for the appointment of the Executive Secretary by the President on the recommendation of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development. It explicitly stated that no provisions on tenure limits exist in the Act governing the agency.
“Her reappointment by the President is in order and does not contravene any law,” the statement added.
Under Shinkafi’s leadership, the SMDF has been credited with initiatives such as reorganizing the fund for capital mobilization, de-risking investments in the mining sector, and enabling exploration to accelerate mine development.
The ministry assured stakeholders of continued efforts to support the SMDF in unlocking financing opportunities, strengthening partnerships, and boosting economic growth. These steps align with the Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to position the solid minerals sector as a key contributor to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
“Hajia Fatima Shinkafi’s pivotal role in our efforts to reposition the mining sector is invaluable,” the ministry concluded.