Organisers of the 2026 Africa Women of Impact Awards named the head of Nigeria’s solid minerals fund as one of the most influential female leaders on the continent.
According to a report by Premium Times on Saturday, March 7, 2026, Fatima Shinkafi was listed among the 100 honourees for the awards organised by ARISE News. She joins a list of prominent figures that includes former Nigerian First Lady Aisha Buhari and business leaders Halima Dangote and Ibukun Awosika.
The award ceremony is scheduled to hold on 8 March at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos. Organisers selected the women to celebrate their significant contributions across various sectors, including governance, healthcare, technology, media, and the creative industries. The final list features a strong representation from Nigeria alongside leaders from South Africa, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Sudan, Côte d’Ivoire, and Niger.
Shinkafi currently serves as the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund and the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative. Former President Muhammadu Buhari first appointed her to the position, and President Bola Tinubu reappointed her in 2024 to continue driving reforms in the sector. Other notable Africans on the list include Winnie Byanyima of UNAIDS, South African politician Helen Zille, and Nigerian filmmaker Kemi Adetiba.
The ARISE News Board of Editors selected the honourees through global audience nominations and focus group engagements. The broadcast channel noted that the women were fit and proper in shaping the African renaissance. This recognition aligns with this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give To Gain,” which aims to encourage a mindset of generosity and collaboration across the continent.
The management of Premium Times issued a congratulatory message to Shinkafi on Friday. Olayinka Lawal, the Senior Manager of Business and Partnership at the media organisation, praised her commitment to public service and national development.
Lawal said “Mrs Shinkafi’s selection underscores her dedication to advancing Nigeria’s solid minerals sector and strengthening institutional frameworks that promote sustainable resource development.” He added that through her leadership at the agency, she continued to champion initiatives aimed at unlocking the economic potential of mineral resources while encouraging responsible investment.