The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development (MSMD) has reaffirmed the legality of Hajia Fatima Shinkafi’s reappointment as the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF), countering claims of irregularities. In a statement signed by Mrs. Ekwugha Chinwe, Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations, the ministry emphasized that the process, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, complies with the Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act (NMMA) 2007.
The ministry clarified that Section 35(2) of the NMMA provides for the appointment of the SMDF Executive Secretary by the President on the recommendation of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, with no stipulation for term limits. “There is no provision in the act governing the agency that limits the tenure of the Executive Secretary. Therefore, her reappointment is in order and does not contravene any law,” the statement affirmed.
Highlighting Shinkafi’s achievements, the MSMD noted her pivotal role in restructuring the SMDF to mobilize capital, de-risk investments, and promote targeted exploration for mine development. The ministry pledged to continue supporting the SMDF in driving initiatives that align with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aiming to make the solid minerals sector a key contributor to Nigeria’s economic growth and Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Stakeholders were urged to trust the administration’s efforts to reposition the mining sector for sustainable development.
