Dele Ayanleke Congratulates Fatimah Shinkafi on Reappointment, Urges Collaboration with FG for Mining Sector Growth
A report by Business Day stated that Dele Ayanleke, the National President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, has extended congratulations to Fatimah Shinkafi on her reappointment as the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF) and the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (PAGMI).
In his statement, Ayanleke urged Shinkafi to view her reappointment as a divine call to action, advocating for her to focus on finalising the SMDF/AFC collaborations to secure critical investments for the solid minerals sector. He also encouraged her to explore additional funding opportunities for small-scale leaseholders, whose operations present immense potential for wealth creation and poverty alleviation.
He emphasised the necessity of her partnership with Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, in repatriating the ₦2.5 billion FG intervention fund currently lodged with the Bank of Industry (BoI) for nearly a decade. “It is imperative for the SMDF, under her leadership, to ensure the judicious use of this fund to bolster the capacity of artisanal and small-scale miners, addressing its original intent despite prevailing economic challenges,” Ayanleke said.
He further called on the Federal Government to reassess the operational guidelines of the SMDF to elevate its status as the premier financial institution for the mining sector.
Pledging the association’s readiness to collaborate with Shinkafi, Ayanleke expressed optimism about her ability to engage stakeholders effectively and reposition the SMDF to bridge financing gaps in mining assets.
“It is also expected that she will work strategically with critical stakeholders to craft policies and implement actions that will enhance the Fund’s impact on the mining sector,” he added.
The Miners Association of Nigeria reiterated its commitment to supporting Shinkafi’s efforts in driving sustainable growth and innovation within the solid minerals sector.