Head, Minerals and Project Development Department, SMDF, Dr. Martina Ananaba (2nd From Right) who represented the Executive Secretary, SMDF, Hajia Fatima Shinkafi and the Head of Corporate Communications, SMDF, Mrs. Idowu Jokpeyibo (2nd From Left) and some officials, at the Opening Ceremony of the five-day intensive training, in Abuja, on Monday.
By Palma Ileye
Solid Minerals Development Fund, SMDF, has partnered with the Nigerian Red Cross Society to train its workforce in advanced emergency response skills, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s diversification agenda.
This collaboration was announced by the Executive Secretary of SMDF, Hajia Fatima Shinkafi at the commencement of a Five-Day training program in Abuja.
Shinkafi emphasized that the training was part of SMDF’s commitment to building a resilient workforce capable of managing emergencies effectively, which will help prevent avoidable fatalities and ensure the stability of the sector.
She said, “It is my pleasure to welcome all of you to this important Red Cross training session. As an agency dedicated to serving the public, it is essential that we are prepared to respond to emergencies at any time, and that is why this training is so critical.”
Representing Hajia Shinkafi, Dr. Martina Ananaba, Head of the Minerals and Project Development Department at SMDF stressed the significance of the training in fulfilling the mandate set by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake.
“The initiative is designed to strengthen the workforce’s readiness to handle emergencies in hazardous sectors like mining, construction, and exploration.
“The training covers crucial topics such as first aid, CPR, and emergency preparedness. Participants will gain the skills necessary to perform life-saving interventions during critical situations.
“These are not just technical skills; they are life-saving skills. By the end of this training, you should have the confidence and capability to respond when the unexpected occurs,” she hinted.
Also, Head of Corporate Communications at SMDF, Mrs. Idowu Jokpeyibo called on the Nigerian Red Cross Society to extend this critical training to other agencies like the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC and workplace settings, as some previously trained Staff might have retired or been transferred.
On his part, Mr. Audu Goji, Head of Training at the Nigerian Red Cross Society highlighted the importance of advanced life-saving skills for designated first responders working in hazardous environments such as offshore sites, aviation and exploration industries.
He shared a tragic story to emphasize the importance of proper emergency response, where a victim of a fatal accident caused by a governor’s convoy could have been saved if appropriate first aid had been administered before transport.
Goji reiterated the need for every vehicle to be equipped with a first aid kit, noting that these tools could make the difference between life and death during emergencies.
The training reflects SMDF’s broader objective of fostering a safe and prepared workforce, contributing not only to the safety of individuals but also to the overall productivity and success of the solid minerals sector.
The five-day training facilitated by the Nigerian Red Cross, is expected to empower SMDF Staff with practical skills, ensuring they were well-prepared to meet any emergency challenges that may arise as they carry out their duties.
