President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Justina Nelson as the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF). This appointment, which takes immediate effect, was announced following the revocation of Edward Nana Yaw Koranteng’s appointment as CEO of the Fund.
The decision, communicated in an official statement from the Presidency, was made in accordance with Article 195 (1) of the Constitution and Section 21 (2) of the MIIF Act, 2018 (Act 978). The statement emphasized Nelson’s extensive experience in both the mining and finance sectors, which positions her to oversee the Fund’s operations with competence and vision.
Nelson currently holds the position of Group Head at Zenith Bank, where she manages the energy and commercial banking sectors. Her professional trajectory includes a wealth of experience in leadership roles within private and public institutions, particularly in corporate finance and resource management. These qualifications align with the demands of her new role as Acting CEO of MIIF.
Her academic credentials further enhance her suitability for the position. Nelson possesses a Master of Laws in Corporate and Commercial Law, a Master in Business Administration (specializing in Marketing), a Bachelor of Laws (Hons), and a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Management and Psychology. Her combined educational background and practical expertise provide a solid foundation for navigating the complexities of mineral income management.
The Minerals Income Investment Fund is a critical institution tasked with managing Ghana’s mineral royalties to ensure sustainable development. Nelson’s appointment has been met with optimism, as her leadership is expected to strengthen the Fund’s capacity to achieve its strategic goals.
The announcement comes amidst significant changes at MIIF. On January 14, President Mahama revoked the appointment of Edward Nana Yaw Koranteng as CEO of the Fund. The revocation, detailed in a letter signed by the Secretary to the President, Callistus Mahama, directed Koranteng to transfer his duties to Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson.
Dr. Forson, serving as the government’s representative at the Ministry of Finance, has been assigned to oversee MIIF’s operations until a substantive CEO is appointed. This transitional arrangement ensures the Fund continues its activities without disruption.
The Presidency expressed gratitude to Edward Nana Yaw Koranteng for his contributions during his tenure. However, the need for new leadership to propel MIIF toward greater efficiency and effectiveness was emphasized. This decision is part of a broader effort to align the Fund’s operations with national development priorities.
Nelson’s appointment represents a new chapter for MIIF, with stakeholders and industry experts expressing confidence in her ability to lead the Fund effectively. Her role will involve overseeing day-to-day operations, implementing strategic initiatives, and ensuring compliance with the Fund’s mandate.
As Ghana’s premier institution for managing mineral royalties, MIIF has a significant role in the country’s economic development. The Fund is responsible for optimizing the value of mineral income, ensuring transparency, and channeling resources toward social and economic progress. Under Nelson’s leadership, the Fund is expected to enhance its impact and deliver measurable results.
One of the immediate challenges for Nelson will be addressing operational inefficiencies and ensuring that MIIF’s activities align with its strategic objectives. Her leadership will also focus on fostering collaboration with stakeholders, including the Ministry of Finance, the MIIF Board, and the mining industry.
In her previous roles, Nelson demonstrated an ability to manage complex financial portfolios and implement innovative solutions. These skills will be crucial in her efforts to strengthen MIIF’s governance framework, optimize investments, and build public trust in the Fund’s activities.
The Minerals Income Investment Fund operates under the MIIF Act, 2018 (Act 978), which mandates it to manage Ghana’s mineral royalties and related income for the benefit of the nation. This includes ensuring that resources are utilized sustainably and equitably. Nelson’s appointment underscores the government’s commitment to professionalizing the Fund’s operations and enhancing its efficiency.
Her leadership is expected to bring a renewed focus on transparency and accountability, which are essential for maintaining public confidence in the Fund. This aligns with the government’s broader vision of ensuring that Ghana’s natural resources are managed responsibly for the benefit of current and future generations.
As Acting CEO, Nelson will also oversee the implementation of initiatives aimed at maximizing returns on investments and expanding the Fund’s revenue streams. This includes exploring innovative financing mechanisms and strengthening partnerships with both local and international stakeholders.
Nelson’s appointment has been widely welcomed as a step toward realizing the full potential of Ghana’s mineral wealth. Industry analysts have praised her expertise and expressed confidence in her ability to navigate the challenges facing MIIF. Her tenure is expected to focus on enhancing the Fund’s operational efficiency, promoting sustainable practices, and delivering tangible benefits to Ghanaians.
President Mahama’s decision to appoint Nelson reflects a broader strategy of leveraging talent and expertise to drive institutional performance. It also highlights the government’s commitment to ensuring that key appointments are based on merit and aligned with national development priorities.
In the coming months, Nelson’s leadership will be closely watched as she takes on the responsibility of steering MIIF toward achieving its objectives. Her success will depend on her ability to balance the Fund’s operational demands with the need to deliver results that align with Ghana’s development goals.
With her extensive experience and proven track record, Nelson is well-positioned to lead MIIF into a new era of growth and development. Her appointment marks a significant milestone in the Fund’s journey and signals a commitment to professionalism, innovation, and excellence in the management of Ghana’s mineral resources.
