Sokoto ADC gov candidate pledges civil service reforms, poverty reduction

The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress in Sokoto State, Manir Dan’iya, has pledged to revitalise the state civil service, restore meritocracy and implement policies aimed at reducing poverty if elected governor in the 2027 general elections. Dan’iya, popularly known as the Walin Sokoto, made the commitment while receiving a delegation of civil servants, including administrative officers, finance officers and local government personnel, who paid him a Sallah homage and declared support for his gubernatorial aspiration. Addressing the delegation on Sunday, the ADC candidate described the civil service as the engine room of government, stressing that effective governance and sustainable development depend largely on a motivated and professional workforce. “A strong civil service is the engine room of government. When civil servants are treated fairly, motivated appropriately, and allowed to discharge their responsibilities without discrimination, governance becomes more efficient, and development becomes more visible,” he said. Dan’iya expressed concern over reports that some civil servants and local government employees had allegedly suffered career setbacks because of their association with previous administrations, arguing that public service should be guided by competence, professionalism and the rule of law rather than political considerations. “Government is a continuum. Civil servants are servants of the state and not of any political party. Any administration that seeks sustainable development must build an environment where professionalism, experience and competence are respected and rewarded,” he added. The ADC flagbearer said his administration would focus on tackling poverty, unemployment and other socio-economic challenges affecting residents of the state, including access to quality education, healthcare and rural development. He cited findings from the National Bureau of Statistics and the United Nations Development Programme-backed National Multidimensional Poverty Index, which ranked Sokoto among the states with the highest levels of multidimensional poverty in Nigeria. Related News Nigeria’s progress depends on civil servants resisting political pressure – Faleke Oyebanji intimidating opposition with security agencies, PDP alleges Atiku slams Babachir over ethnic remarks, conspiracy claims According to him, multidimensional poverty extends beyond income levels and includes deprivation in areas such as education, healthcare, nutrition, housing, electricity, sanitation and access to clean water. “Any government confron