Confusion Erupts Over Dual Appointments in Solid Minerals Development Fund
The Presidency caused a stir on Saturday after a graphic shared on its official X account listed two individuals, Fatima Shinkafi and Danfulani, as executive secretaries of the Solid Minerals Development Fund/Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (SMDF/PAGMI).
This incident followed a series of appointments announced by President Bola Tinubu on Friday, covering key agencies such as the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC).
The Back-and-Forth
Initially, Yazid Shehu was announced as the executive secretary of SMDF/PAGMI in a statement signed by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. However, hours later, Onanuga clarified that Shehu’s appointment had been rescinded because “there is no vacancy in the agency.” Fatima Shinkafi was then reappointed to the position.
Adding to the confusion, the graphic released by the Presidency listed both Shinkafi and Danfulani as executive secretaries, sparking widespread speculation and criticism.
Behind the Scenes
According to insider sources, the inclusion of Danfulani was allegedly influenced by Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, who reportedly lobbied for his former commissioner of commerce and industry in Zamfara State to be appointed.
However, the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, who oversees SMDF/PAGMI, intervened to clarify the appointments, leading to the withdrawal of Danfulani’s name.
Final Clarification
The Presidency later issued a statement reaffirming Fatima Shinkafi as the sole executive secretary of SMDF/PAGMI.
This incident highlights ongoing challenges with coordination and communication within the administration regarding appointments. Observers have called for greater transparency and a more streamlined process to avoid similar occurrences in the future.
For now, Fatima Shinkafi remains confirmed as the leader of SMDF/PAGMI, with her reappointment drawing attention to her experience in the mining sector and her prior contributions to the initiative.
