KatsinaTimes 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred the 2025 Nigeria Excellence Award in Public Service (NEAPS) on Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal in recognition of his role in governance and security reform.

The award was presented on the President’s behalf by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, during the NEAPS 2025 award dinner at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja.

The event was organized by The Best Strategic Media in partnership with the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

According to details provided by the governor’s office, the NEAPS initiative, established in 2022, recognizes individuals for sustained, positive contributions to national development.

Governor Lawal was honoured for reforms introduced across key sectors of Zamfara State. The award committee cited the administration’s efforts to streamline the civil service, prioritize workers’ welfare, and clear longstanding liabilities. Over the past two years, the state government has reportedly paid more than N15 billion in accumulated gratuities owed to retirees over a 13-year period. The committee also noted the increase of the state’s minimum wage from N7,000 to N70,000 and the introduction of a 13th-month salary for civil servants.

Other achievements referenced include the government’s urban renewal initiatives, reconstruction and equipping of more than 500 public schools, and comprehensive upgrades of general hospitals across the state.

In the security sector, NEAPS highlighted the creation of the Community Protection Guards, provision of operational vehicles and equipment to security agencies, and routine logistical support for security personnel.

Organizers said the award is intended to encourage exemplary public service and reinforce ongoing efforts to restore stability and development in Zamfara State.