Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has commended the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF), Hajia Fatima Shinkafi, for her transformative and innovative leadership, saying it has contributed significantly to the nation’s economy.
Idowu Jokpeyibo, the Head of Corporate Communications at SMDF, said in a statement that the recognition came during a visit by a delegation from the NIPR led by Chairman of the Institute’s maiden International Women’s Day (IWD) Planning Committee, Hajia Lami Tumaka, ahead of the IWD event in Abuja.
Hajia Fatima highlighted the importance of deliberate mentorship to equip young women for leadership roles, describing it as essential for national development and cultivation of competent female leaders.
She also praised the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr Dele Alake, for creating the enabling environment for women in the solid minerals sector to excel.
“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,” she stressed.
“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.”
Hajiya Tumaka, a Fellow of NIPR, had earlier commended Hajia Fatima for her creativity and innovation at SMDF, noting that her leadership has brought tremendous value to the institution and the nation’s economy.
She also applauded President Bola Tinubu for appointing women into strategic positions across sectors, describing it as a demonstration of gender sensitivity.
Highlighting one of SMDF’s recent milestones, Hajiya Tumaka referenced the $1.3 billion direct foreign investment deal signed between the Federal Government and Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), achieved under Hajia Fatima’s leadership, stressing that the Institute was proud of her transformative impact.
Members of the visiting delegation included Chief Moji Makanjuola; 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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