Shinkafi, Aisha Buhari, and Others Honored as ‘2026 Women of Impact in Africa’

Fatima Shinkafi has earned a spot among 100 prominent African women honored in the '2026 Africa Women of Impact Awards,' organized by ARISE News.

Mrs. Shinkafi serves as the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund/Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (SMDF/PAGMI) and was recognized alongside 99 other distinguished African women for their contributions across multiple sectors.

Her initial appointment came from former President Muhammadu Buhari, and she was reappointed in 2024 by President Bola Tinubu.

Mrs. Shinkafi is widely celebrated as a pivotal force in championing reforms in Nigeria’s solid minerals industry through her leadership at the SMDF.

The awards

The acknowledgment aligns with the celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) and honors women who have made notable impacts on governance, business, healthcare, technology, and the creative sectors.

Recognition also extends to those in entrepreneurship, law, justice, media, academia, science, medicine, social impact, and philanthropy.

This year’s IWD theme is “Give To Gain,” promoting a mindset of generosity and collaborative efforts.

The awardees were chosen by the Board of Editors from ARISE News based on audience nominations and focus group discussions throughout Africa and globally.

As stated by the channel, the honorees were deemed instrumental in advancing the African renaissance in the evolving global landscape.

The awards feature a diverse array of excellence from Africa, showcasing strong representation from Nigeria alongside leaders from South Africa, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Sudan, Côte d’Ivoire, and Niger, including distinguished African women in various parts of the world.

Notable names among the honorees include former Nigerian First Lady Aisha Buhari, Executive Director of UNAIDS (Uganda), Winnie Byanyima, and South African politician, activist Helen Zille.

Business leaders such as Ibukun Awosika and Halima Dangote, along with creatives like filmmaker Kemi Adetiba, were also celebrated.

The awards ceremony is set to take place on March 8, at Eko Hotel and Suites located in Victoria Island, Lagos, bringing together female leaders from various fields.

Congratulatory message

PREMIUM TIMES management has extended congratulations to Ms. Shinkafi for this esteemed recognition.

In a statement released on Friday, Olayinka Lawal, Senior Manager of Business and Partnership at PREMIUM TIMES, acknowledged Ms. Shinkafi as a dedicated leader in public service and national growth.

“Mrs. Shinkafi’s selection highlights her commitment to progressing Nigeria’s solid minerals sector and enhancing institutional frameworks that support sustainable resource management,” Mr. Lawal stated.

“Through her guidance at the SMDF, she has persistently promoted initiatives aimed at unlocking Nigeria’s mineral resources' economic potential while fostering responsible investment and innovation in the industry.”