NIPR Hails Shinkafi for Boosting Solid Minerals Investments, Innovation

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has commended the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF), Hajia Fatima Shinkafi, for what it described as her impactful leadership and innovative contributions to Nigeria’s economic development.

The commendation came during a courtesy visit by a delegation of the Institute led by Haj. Lami Tumaka, Chairman of the maiden International Women’s Day (IWD) Planning Committee of NIPR, ahead of the Institute’s 2026 IWD celebration scheduled for 30 March in Abuja.

Speaking during the visit, Hajia Shinkafi stressed the need for deliberate mentorship programmes to prepare younger women for leadership responsibilities, describing such efforts as crucial to national development and the emergence of competent female leaders.

According to a statement by the Head of Corporate Communications at SMDF, Idowu Jokpeyibo, Shinkafi noted that empowering young women through guidance and opportunity would ensure a strong pipeline of capable leaders in the future.

“I see so many young, bright and intelligent girls and women that we should be mentoring. It is important that we invest and impact this critical set of people as part of our contributions to the development of our society.

“That way, we are sure of a credible succession generation of competent female leaders. If we don’t, there won’t be anything for them to look up to,” she said.

She also commended the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, for fostering an environment that allows women in the sector to thrive and contribute meaningfully.

Earlier, Haj. Tumaka, a Fellow of NIPR, praised Shinkafi’s leadership at SMDF, noting that her approach has brought notable value to the institution and the wider economy.

Tumaka further lauded President Bola Tinubu for appointing women to key positions across various sectors, describing the move as a clear demonstration of commitment to gender inclusion in governance.

She cited the recent $1.3 billion foreign direct investment agreement between the Federal Government and the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), facilitated under Shinkafi’s leadership, as a significant milestone that underscores the impact of her stewardship at the Fund.

The NIPR 2026 International Women’s Day event, themed “Communicate to Balance: Gain Equity, Empower Women,” will take place at the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser, Abuja.

Members of the visiting delegation included Chief Moji Makanjuola; Mr. Stanley Ogadigo of the NIPR FCT Chapter; Fellow Grace Ayoola; Dr. Tope Ojeme; Fatima Abaji; Princess Tiwalade Fapohunda; Suwaiba Baba; and Alexandria Eke.