As Nigeria commemorates Workers’ Day—a day set aside to reflect on the vital contributions of civil servants and the role of government in safeguarding their welfare—Zamfara State stands out as a shining example of transformative leadership in action. Under the visionary guidance of His Excellency, Governor Dauda Lawal, the state has embarked on a bold journey to revitalize its civil service, restoring its dignity, efficiency, and relevance in today’s governance landscape.
Long plagued by neglect and stagnation, Zamfara State Local Government civil service is now experiencing a renaissance.
At the heart of this transformation is the historic tenfold increase in the minimum wage of Local Government staff —from a paltry ₦7,000 to an unprecedented ₦70,000. For two decades, civil servants endured stagnant wages and diminishing morale. Today, that narrative has changed. This landmark decision has significantly improved the welfare of workers, rekindled their motivation, and reaffirmed the government’s recognition of their indispensable role in state development.
Equally commendable is the administration’s decisive move to clear the backlog of pension arrears owed from 2011 to 2024. For thousands of retirees who had been left in limbo, this intervention has brought long-awaited relief and restored hope. It is a bold statement that those who dedicated their lives to public service will not be forgotten.
Recognizing that a productive workforce thrives in a conducive environment, Governor Lawal has also invested in critical infrastructure to modernize the civil service. The construction of the Conference Hall and new office complexes in Local Government Service Commission —now at 90% completion—signals a future where civil servants operate in spaces that are not only functional but inspiring. These upgrades will foster greater professionalism and enhance service delivery across all Local Governments and departments.
Furthering his commitment to institutional integrity, Governor Lawal granted full autonomy to the Local Government Service Commission. This landmark reform has dismantled entrenched systems of political interference, replacing favoritism with meritocracy.
Appointments and promotions are now based strictly on qualifications, experience, and competence—ushering in a culture of fairness and accountability at the grassroots level.
On this Workers’ Day, Zamfara State serves as a case study in what is possible when leadership is driven by vision, compassion, and a deep commitment to the people. Governor Dauda Lawal has not only reformed the civil service—he has reignited its spirit.
These achievements reflect more than administrative progress—they represent a profound shift in governance. As civil servants across Zamfara celebrate this day with renewed hope, they do so knowing that their contributions are valued, their voices heard, and their future brighter than ever.
Governor Lawal’s actions embody the true spirit of Workers’ Day: honoring the past, transforming the present, and laying a strong foundation for a civil service that is empowered, effective, and dedicated to public good.
Mr Bukhari is the secretary, Zamfara State Local Government Service Commission
