From Abel Leo Zwanke, Lafia
When the Secretaries to the State Governments (SSGs) from across Nigeria gathered in Jos, Plateau State recently, for their annual conference organized by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, it was expected that seasoned administrators would mount the podium and share perspectives on governance. Yet, among the many voices that spoke, one stood out for his clarity, depth, and conviction, Barrister Labaran Magaji, the Secretary to the Government of Nasarawa State.
Representing the vision of Governor Abdullahi Sule with exceptional eloquence, Magaji delivered a presentation that left many delegates impressed. His submission was not only a reflection of the policy thrust of the Sule administration but also a testimony to his own growing stature as one of the stabilising forces in Nasarawa’s governance structure. His speech was described by a delegate from the South West as “practical, well-grounded, and delivered with the confidence of someone who understands the heartbeat of his state.”
Speaking with journalists after the SSGs conference in Jos, Barrister Labaran Magaji, stressed that governance must be anchored on accountability and performance. According to him, no matter the size of a budget or the beauty of a policy document, real development will only happen when ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) are held to high standards of delivery and transparency. He described the SSG as the bridge between vision and implementation, ensuring that government policies do not remain mere promises.
Magaji explained further that peace and trust are central to any development agenda. He noted that while infrastructure and industrialisation remain priorities for Nasarawa, the state has equally invested in stability, community engagement, and conflict prevention. “Peace is the soil in which progress grows,” he remarked, adding that Governor Abdullahi Sule’s leadership has created an enabling environment for projects and investments to thrive.
The Nasarawa SSG also cautioned against early politicking, saying this is the time for leaders to focus on delivery rather than ambition. He urged his colleagues across the states to commit to building lasting legacies by ensuring projects are completed and lives are impacted positively. According to him, premature political distractions could derail the momentum of development that citizens urgently need.
Reflecting on his own stewardship, Magaji said he hopes to be remembered as an administrator who translated policies into tangible results. “It is not about how many ground-breakings we attend but how many lives are touched by the work we do,” he concluded, emphasising that the true measure of governance lies in trust, transparency, and visible change in people’s daily lives.
For close observers of Nasarawa politics and governance, this was not surprising. Since assuming the position of SSG, Labaran Magaji has become a bridge between policy and implementation, between the governor and the people, and between bureaucracy and political leadership. His style of leadership has earned him the trust of civil servants, the confidence of politicians, and the respect of citizens who see him as a steady hand working behind the scenes to make governance work.
Governor Abdullahi Sule came into office with a clear vision of industrialisation, infrastructural renewal, and social development. Translating such a vision into reality requires more than just political will—it requires a system anchored by competent hands. In this regard, Labaran Magaji has played a pivotal role.
Civil servants in the state speak of his accessibility and fairness. According to Mrs. Hauwa Ibrahim, a director in the Ministry of Finance, “The SSG has created an atmosphere where we can speak freely and contribute ideas. He is not only approachable but ensures that due process is followed in every decision. That has reduced tension among workers and helped build confidence in the system.”
Political actors, too, acknowledge his balancing act. Hon. Usman Bala, an APC chieftain in Awe Local Government, noted: “Magaji is one of those who has been able to manage political differences without making enemies. He knows how to carry everyone along, and that’s why he enjoys the governor’s confidence.”
It is no exaggeration to say that under Magaji’s coordination, the governor’s programmes, from road projects and investments in power to educational reforms, have enjoyed smoother execution. His understanding of both legal frameworks and grassroots realities has given him a unique edge in harmonising the diverse arms of governance in Nasarawa.
Trust in governance is often hard-earned, yet Magaji appears to have mastered the craft of building it. Stakeholders point to his honesty and consistency as key to his growing acceptance.
Comrade Daniel Ango, a civil service union leader, explained: “In the past, workers used to feel alienated. But Magaji has made the governor’s office more open. He listens and even when he cannot solve a problem immediately, he explains why. That sincerity makes a difference.”
Beyond the civil service, ordinary citizens also appreciate his interventions. From ensuring timely government responses during community crises to supervising relief distribution transparently, Magaji has quietly earned a reputation as someone who does not compromise public trust.
Political commentators argue that Magaji’s rise within the Sule administration is both strategic and deserved. According to Dr. Alfred Umbugis, a political science lecturer at Nasarawa State University.
“Governance is not only about the governor. The SSG is a key player who ensures that decisions are implemented effectively. Labaran Magaji has demonstrated capacity and loyalty, which is why he is becoming more visible. He represents a younger generation of technocrats who combine knowledge with loyalty to leadership.”
Similarly, journalist and publisher Donatus Nadi observed that Magaji “has succeeded in aligning the governor’s industrialisation drive with the daily running of government. You need someone who can translate policy into actionable frameworks, and that is exactly what Magaji has been doing.”
The political climate in Nasarawa is not without its challenges. With multiple interests competing for influence, and with the 2027 governorship race already generating speculation, the role of the SSG becomes even more delicate.
Magaji has so far managed to maintain neutrality, focusing instead on governance. A legislator in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Hon Solomon Akwadhiki in an interview said: “Magaji’s strength lies in the fact that he does not allow himself to be dragged into petty politics. His loyalty is to the governor and the state, not to factions. That makes him reliable.”
Such a balancing act is rare in Nigeria’s political space, where government officials often tilt toward factions. He recently issued a statement as directed by the governor to go after political appointees who aligns themselves to aspirants for 2027 elections waring them to resign or face strict punishment.
Observers argue that his style has contributed to Nasarawa’s relative political stability compared to some neighboring states.
While Governor Sule takes the lead in negotiating investment deals, attracting industries, and pushing infrastructure projects, Magaji ensures that the bureaucratic machinery is aligned with those ambitions. Insiders at Government House, Lafia, note that the SSG’s office has become a hub of coordination, ensuring that ministries deliver on targets.
This coordination role became evident during the visit of president Bola Ahmed Tinubu to commission the flyover underpass Bridge, state Secretariate and other projects when the state’s response was praised for its orderliness. Though the governor led from the front, Magaji’s hand in ensuring smooth inter-ministerial cooperation, stakeholders arrangemt and maintaining protocols unmistakable.
More recently, his role in ensuring government projects are executed, functional and better office vehicles are purchased and distributed to securities, MDAs and government ministers has drawn commendation. “He personally supervised the process, making sure standard vehicles are purchased and got to the proposed people directly. That’s not something you see every day,” said Mrs. Ruth Yakubu, a community leader in Doma.
Yet, behind the official image lies a man with deep roots in the community. Magaji’s humility and ability to relate across social divides are often cited as key to his effectiveness.
“He has not allowed office to change him. When you meet him, you see someone who is simple, respectful, and ready to listen. That’s why many people trust him,” said Alhaji Musa Adamu, a traditional leader in Toto Local Government.
Labaran Magaji’s journey to the SSG’s office is marked by resilience, preparation, and service. Trained as a lawyer, he cut his teeth in legal practice and public service before venturing into politics. Over the years, he built a reputation as a grassroots mobiliser and an advocate of good governance.
His first major political outing was his bid for elective office where he contested the primaries for senate position in the Western zone where though he did not clinch the position, he gained visibility and respect across Nasarawa. He was appointed the Commissioner for Justice and Nasarawa state Attorney General. His legal background proved useful, as he became a resource person on governance, law, and civic engagement.
When Governor Sule appointed him as Secretary to the State Government, many saw it as a strategic decision to inject both loyalty and competence into the administration. Today, those who doubted his capacity have been convinced by his performance.
As Nasarawa continues on its path of development, stakeholders believe Magaji’s role will remain indispensable. His ability to interpret and implement the governor’s vision while keeping the machinery of government stable has made him a cornerstone of the Sule administration.
For now, Labaran Magaji remains content working behind the scenes, ensuring that governance does not derail. But his rising profile has sparked conversations about his future political prospects. Whether he chooses to remain a technocrat or step fully into partisan politics, one thing is certain: his imprint on the governance of Nasarawa State is already undeniable.
As Professor John Adeyemi, a governance expert, summed it up: “Every administration needs someone who stabilises the system. In Nasarawa, that person is Labaran Magaji. He may not always be in the headlines, but his impact is everywhere.”
