The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Sokoto State, Manir Dan’iya, has pledged to reform the state civil service, restore merit-based career progression and implement policies aimed at reducing poverty if elected in the 2027 governorship election.
Dan’iya, popularly known as the Walin Sokoto, made the pledge while receiving a delegation of civil servants, including administrative officers, finance officers and local government workers, who paid him a Sallah visit and declared support for his governorship ambition.
Speaking during the visit, the ADC flagbearer described the civil service as the backbone of government, stressing that no administration can achieve meaningful development without a motivated, professional and efficient workforce.
According to him, good governance thrives when civil servants are treated fairly, adequately motivated and allowed to perform their duties without bias or political interference.
Dan’iya expressed concern over reports that some civil servants and local government employees allegedly suffered career stagnation because of their links to previous administrations. He maintained that public service should be driven by competence, professionalism and due process rather than political considerations.
He noted that civil servants serve the state and not political parties, adding that any government seeking sustainable development must create an environment where experience, competence and hard work are recognised and rewarded.
The ADC candidate also promised to tackle poverty, unemployment and other socio-economic challenges confronting residents of the state. He said his administration would prioritise improved access to quality education, healthcare, rural development and economic opportunities.
Dan’iya cited reports showing Sokoto among states with high levels of multidimensional poverty, noting that poverty extends beyond income and includes challenges relating to education, healthcare, housing, sanitation, electricity and access to clean water.
He said government must focus on improving living conditions, creating opportunities and restoring hope among citizens through policies that directly impact their daily lives.
The governorship hopeful further assured workers that his administration would prioritise institutional reforms, capacity building, workforce development and prompt payment of salaries and other entitlements.
He also pledged to build a modern, technology-driven and merit-based civil service capable of delivering efficient public service and competing with the best institutions in the country.
Earlier, leader of the delegation, Malam Muhammad Gumbi, congratulated Dan’iya on the successful Eid-el-Kabir celebrations and commended his engagement with public servants across the state.
Gumbi said the visit was to reaffirm the group’s support for the ADC and its vision of accountable, inclusive and people-centred governance in Sokoto State.
He expressed confidence that Dan’iya would implement reforms that would strengthen the civil service and improve governance if elected governor.
The visit was attended by the ADC State Chairman, Abdullahi Maigwandu, and members of the party’s state executive committee.