Federal Capital Territory Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has emphasized that a committed and ethical civil service remains the backbone of sustainable national progress.
The minister made this emphasis at the launch of three intellectually rich books authored by Dr. Jumai Ahmadu.
The three books are: “The Evolution and Development of the Federal Capital Territory,” “When the Spirit Whispers,” and “Steward of the Nation: The Role of the Civil Servants in National Development.”
She noted that the books collectively addressed Nigeria’s national journey, institutional growth, and the values sustaining public service and personal purpose.
While highlighting one of the books, “The Evolution and Development of the Federal Capital Territory” Mahmoud explained that the book provided critical documentation of Abuja’s transformation, offering valuable insights into the vision, planning, and governance shaping Nigeria’s capital city.
She described it as a significant contribution to policy discourse and urban development literature.
Mahmoud further stated that: “When the Spirit Whispers” went beyond governance into introspection, reminding readers of the importance of moral clarity, purpose, and inner conviction in leadership and daily life.
The minister emphasized its relevance at a time when the nation yearned for ethical leadership and personal responsibility, calling it both inspiring and instructive.
She equally praised: “Steward of the Nation: The Role of the Civil Servants in National Development,” which underscored the indispensable role of civil servants in national progress.
“The book highlighted professionalism, accountability, and service as pillars of effective governance, reinforcing that a committed and ethical civil service remained the backbone of sustainable development,” she stated.
The minister, therefore, commended Dr. Ahmadu for her dedication to knowledge, public service, and nation-building, stating that her works would serve as reference materials for policymakers, scholars, civil servants, and the younger generation.
She, however, encouraged readers to engage deeply with the books, as they offered lessons aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda—promoting good governance, institutional strength, and inclusive national development.
Earlier, the author of the books and acting Director FCT Reform Coordination and Service Improvement, Dr. Jumai Ahmadu described the launch as the documentation of a journey; my personal journey, our collective journey, and the evolving story of service, faith, and nation-building.
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“I joined the civil service 28 years ago, young, idealistic, and full of hope about the power of public service to shape lives and institutions.
“Over the years, that belief has been tested, refined, challenged, and ultimately strengthened through reforms, transitions, setbacks, and progress.
“Those twenty-eight years taught me that institutions do not succeed by chance. They grow when people serve with integrity, competence, and a genuine sense of stewardship.
“That conviction inspired Stewards of the Nation, a tribute to the many civil servants whose quiet dedication keeps governance moving forward every day.”
She expressed hope that the books would inspire greater integrity in service, deeper understanding of governance, and renewed purpose in life’s journey.
