The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has added their voice to the growing calls for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reconsider the appointment of Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani as the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund/Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (SMDF/PAGMI).
In a press statement issued by the President General, Yerima Shettima, the AYCF expressed concern over what they described as a “mix-up” in the appointments announced on December 6, 2024.
The AYCF acknowledged the contributions of Hajia Fatima Umaru-Shinkafi, who was reappointed to the role after Danfulani’s initial appointment was reversed. However, they argued that the sector requires new leadership to achieve greater heights. They highlighted Danfulani’s background in banking, computing, and business administration, as well as his experience at the Central Bank of Nigeria and as Zamfara State Commissioner of Commerce and Industry.
According to the AYCF, Danfulani’s innovative approach and expertise make him an ideal candidate to implement the Renewed Hope Agenda for the solid minerals sector. They believe that his leadership would help revitalize the SMDF/PAGMI and drive reforms in the critical solid minerals sector. The group urged President Tinubu to review the decision in favor of Danfulani’s leadership.
The Solid Minerals Development Fund and the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative are crucial components of Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its economy and boost non-oil revenue. The AYCF’s call for reconsideration of Danfulani’s appointment comes at a time when the country is seeking to drive reforms in the solid minerals sector.
The AYCF highlights the importance of appointing a leader with the right expertise and vision to lead the SMDF/PAGMI. They believe that the success of these initiatives hinges on the appointment of a leader with the right expertise and vision to drive them forward. In their view, Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani is the ideal candidate for this role, and they are urging President Tinubu to reconsider his appointment in order to achieve the desired goals for the solid minerals sector.
The AYCF’s stance on this issue highlights the importance of leadership in driving the success of any organization or initiative. A leader with the right expertise and vision can inspire and motivate their team, set clear goals and objectives, and make strategic decisions that will lead to success. In the case of the SMDF and PAGMI, the AYCF believes that Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani possesses the necessary qualities to lead these initiatives to success.
Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in the solid minerals sector. He has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the industry and has a proven track record of delivering results in similar roles. His vision for the sector aligns with the goals of the SMDF and PAGMI, and his leadership style is one that inspires confidence and trust in those around him.
President Tinubu’s appointment of Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani would send a strong signal to the industry and the international community that Nigeria is serious about developing its solid minerals sector. It would also ensure that the SMDF and PAGMI have the leadership they need to succeed in achieving their goals of promoting sustainable development, creating jobs, and boosting economic growth.