ADC governorship aspirant Manir Dan’iya has pledged civil service reforms, meritocracy and poverty reduction in Sokoto State if elected
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 broad socio-economic reforms if elected governor in the 2027 general elections.
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Dan’iya, also known as the Walin Sokoto, made the commitment on Sunday while receiving a delegation of civil servants, including administrative officers, finance officers and local government staff, who paid him a Sallah homage and declared support for his aspiration.
He described the civil service as the engine room of government, stressing that effective governance depends on a disciplined, 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 alleged political interference in the careers of some civil servants, insisting that public service should be guided strictly by competence, professionalism and the rule of law.
He maintained that civil servants are servants of the state and not of any political party, adding that sustainable development requires respect for institutional processes and merit-based advancement.
The ADC governorship aspirant also outlined plans to tackle poverty, unemployment and other socio-economic challenges affecting Sokoto State, with emphasis on education, healthcare and rural development.
He referenced data from the National Bureau of Statistics and the United Nations Development Programme-backed Multidimensional Poverty Index, which ranks Sokoto among states with high levels of poverty in Nigeria.
Dan’iya explained that multidimensional poverty includes deprivation in key areas such as education, healthcare, housing, sanitation and access to basic infrastructure.
He said government must prioritise interventions that directly improve living standards and expand opportunities for citizens.
“Our priority must be to create hope, restore confidence and provide solutions that directly impact the lives of ordinary people,” he said.
He further promised institutional reforms, workforce development, prompt payment of entitlements and a technology-driven civil service system aimed at improving efficiency and accountability.
Earlier, speaking on behalf of the delegation, Malam Muhammad Gumbi commended Dan’iya for his engagement with public servants and reaffirmed support for his political vision.
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The visit was attended by the ADC State Chairman, Abdullahi Maigwandu, alongside members of the party’s state executive committee.
