AdminAnambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has appointed 18 new permanent secretaries in the state’s civil service.
Among the new permanent secretaries are two non-indigenes – Mr Adebayo Ojeyunka from Osun State and Mr Joachim Achor from Abia State.
Some described it as an unprecedented and disruptive appointment coming from Governor Soludo and the civil service sector as it was based on merit not state of origin as has been the case.
The gesture is also said to be another testament to the receptive nature of Anambra people.
Even younger, very productive civil servants were appointed based on their exceptional abilities.
This groundbreaking move by Gov Soludo highlights his commitment to breaking down barriers and promoting inclusivity in Anambra State.
The appointments of non-indigenes and individuals from other states demonstrate a willingness to tap into talent from all corners of the country, rather than limiting opportunities to only those who hail from Anambra.
The appointment of Mr. Ojeyinka from Osun State is particularly noteworthy as it breaks the traditional practice of reserving top civil service positions for indigenes only.
This move sends a strong message that Anambra is open to all, irrespective of their state of origin.
Furthermore, the appointment of Mr. Achor from Abia State is a clear indication that merit is the primary criterion for selection. This is a commendable departure from the dismal tradition of nepotism and favoritism that has plagued the Nigerian civil service for years.
Ojeyinka had been in Anambra State since 1995 when he finished his National Youth Service scheme (NYSC) in the state and got automatic employment in the civil service for his noble performance that enabled him to earn the best-serving corps member in the state.
Reacting to the appointment, Ojeyinka said: “I am so excited to be considered. I don’t see this as a right but rather a rare privilege because so many brilliant officers also merited the promotion,” Ojeyinka was quoted as saying in reaction to the appointment.
“I thank Mr Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, for this honour, and Ndi Anambra for all their love, kindness and support in my 29 years of living in Anambra State.”
The others are Dr Nwabufo Nwankwo, a former Chairman of National Youth Council, Anambra Chapter, Mr Martins Agbili, the present Chief Fire Officer of State, Mr Michael Obiekwe, Mr Augustine Okonkwo, Mr Ndirika Onyekwelu, Dr Obiageli Uchebo, Mr Victor Ezekwo, Mrs. Chinwe Achugbu, Mrs. Ifeoma Agbaizu, Mrs Nkiru Nwankwo, Mr Tochukwu Obodogha, Mr. Ifeatu Emodi, Dr Florence Idigo-Ibenta, Mrs Nkeiruka Mokwe, Mr. Jerome Ilokwu and Mrs Chinyere Nwabachili.
In a statement, Mr. Christian Aburime, Soludo’s press secretary, said the selections reflected the governor’s strategy for reforms aimed at ensuring accountability, openness, and best possible service.
He said the appointments followed due process and merit involving computer based examination and one-on-one interviews with the governor.
“This ensured the identification of high-performing individuals in different professions and senatorial zones who are poised to excel within the Civil Service.
“This personalised interaction allowed for a deeper understanding of the candidates’ aspirations, vision, and alignment with the government’s objectives, ensuring a well-rounded evaluation,” he said.
