NIPR Hails SMDF Boss Hajia Shinkafi for Transformative Leadership, Mentorship of Women

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has lauded the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF), Hajia Fatima Umaru Shinkafi, for her innovative leadership and transformative contributions to Nigeria’s economy.

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

According to a press statement signed by Idowu Jokpeyibo, Head of Corporate Communications at SMDF, Hajia Shinkafi emphasized the role of deliberate mentorship in preparing young women for leadership positions. She described mentorship as crucial for national development and nurturing competent female leaders. She also praised the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, for fostering an enabling environment for women in the sector.

“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 credible succession generation of competent female leaders. If we don’t, there won’t be anything for them to look up to,” Hajia Shinkafi said.

Haj. Tumaka, a Fellow of NIPR, commended Hajia Shinkafi for her creativity and leadership at SMDF, noting that her stewardship has generated significant value for both the institution and Nigeria’s economy. She also praised President Bola Tinubu for appointing women to strategic positions across sectors, describing it as a demonstration of gender-sensitive governance.

Highlighting SMDF’s recent achievements under Hajia Shinkafi, Tumaka referenced the $1.3 billion direct foreign investment deal signed between the Federal Government and the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), noting the transformative impact of her leadership.

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

The visiting delegation included Chief Moji Makanjuola, Mr. Stanley Ogadigo (NIPR FCT Chapter), Fellow Grace Ayoola, Dr. Tope Ojeme, Fatima Abaji, Princess Tiwalade Fapohunda, Suwaiba Baba, and Alexandria Eke.

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