The Nigerian Chamber of Mines and Geological Workers has welcomed President Bola Tinubu’s decision to reappoint Hajia Fatima Umaru-Shinkafi as Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund/Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (SMDF/PAGMI). In a statement signed by its Chairman, Silas Kefas, the Chamber urged the reappointed Executive Secretary to prioritise tackling illegal mining and addressing poor regulatory compliance while driving policies that promote industry best practices.
Strengthening the Solid Minerals Sector
The Chamber emphasised the need for Umaru-Shinkafi to leverage her expertise in the solid minerals sector to attract both local and international investments. It called for the reoriented focus on enhancing artisanal gold mining and strengthening the value chain to position Nigeria as a competitive player in the global minerals market.
The statement outlined key expectations for the SMDF under Umaru-Shinkafi, including:
Job Creation and Capacity Building: Developing skills in the mining sector to boost employment opportunities.
Infrastructural Development: Improving mining infrastructure to support industry growth.
Enhanced Export Capacity: Building mechanisms for increased mineral exports to bolster Nigeria’s economic position.
Financial Prudence: Ensuring transparency and accountability in fund management.
Economic Contribution: Expanding the sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Collaboration for Industry Growth
The Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with the SMDF to diversify Nigeria’s economy through sustainable development of the solid minerals sector. It also highlighted the importance of formulating policies to curb illegal mining activities, which undermine regulatory compliance and sector integrity.
Renewed Mandate for Industry Transformation
The reappointment of Umaru-Shinkafi underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to fostering stability and continuity in the solid minerals sector. Stakeholders have expressed optimism that her leadership will drive transformative advancements, particularly in artisanal mining, job creation, and infrastructural growth.
This development highlights the critical role of strong leadership and strategic focus in transforming Nigeria’s mining sector into a global powerhouse.
