With dismay, Nigerian citizens were shocked by the unprecedented reversal of a presidential order to appoint a new Executive Secretary for the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF) and the Presidential Artisan Gold Mining Initiative. Instead, the current Executive Secretary, Fatima Shinkafi, whose second term is set to expire in five months on May 24, 2025 was reappointed for a third consecutive term.
According to a statement signed and released to journalists by Comrade Umar Ibrahim Gidado
Founder, Community Watch Vanguard (CWV) noted that Ms. Shinkafi, who began her first term on May 24, 2017, was reappointed in 2021 for another four-year term. However, reports indicate that she allegedly colluded with certain unscrupulous elements within the corridors of power to manipulate the Minister of Solid Minerals and mislead the President into believing she had only served a single term. This deception reportedly secured her another five-year term, thereby extending her stay to an unprecedented 13 consecutive years as Executive Secretary. Such a move clearly contradicts the Renewed Hope agenda of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It also sets a dangerous precedent for governance and tenure limitations, as statutory appointments are not expected to exceed two terms.
It is worth noting that Ms. Shinkafi is widely known for allegedly exploiting her position to support opposition figures, including Gen. Ali Gusau and Governor Dauda. Instead of mobilizing support for the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s election, she was reportedly in faraway Kebbi State, wining and dining.
Additionally, her administration of the organization has been described as a “family affair,” with no clear organizational structure in place. Staff operate without a proper chain of command, with some drivers reportedly earning more than master’s degree holders. Shockingly, the Security Coordinator of the Presidential Program is placed above senior management staff.
Furthermore, it is alleged that her 11 domestic aides are all paid from office funds, receiving salaries comparable to those of degree holders. Several loyalists within her circle are also alleged to be on the payroll without any documentation supporting their employment. The administration of the office is shrouded in secrecy, with only a select few privy to its internal dealings.
In light of these troubling revelations, we make a passionate and unequivocal call to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Solid Minerals, and all other relevant government stakeholders to urgently review this reappointment. Failure to address this matter risks undermining the achievements of this administration and eroding public confidence in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance.
