By Our correspondent
In a landmark move that redefines civil service inclusivity in Nigeria, the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has appointed Mr. Joachim Achor, a native of Abia State, as the Accountant General of Anambra State.
This appointment marks a decisive departure from the longstanding tradition of reserving top government positions exclusively for state indigenes and reinforces the Soludo administration’s commitment to meritocracy and inclusion.
Since assuming office in 2022, Governor Soludo has consistently demonstrated a bold and reformist vision by appointing non-indigenes into critical roles in his government, including as Permanent Secretaries—an unprecedented development in the political history of the state.
Mr. Achor’s elevation is not just symbolic; it is the culmination of a remarkable journey marked by resilience, professional excellence, and steadfast dedication to public service within the Anambra State Civil Service.
Originally from Abia State, Mr. Achor came to Anambra as a student seeking academic opportunity. After graduating from the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, he was posted to Anambra for the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme.
During his service year, he distinguished himself as the best corps member in the state, earning the prestigious NYSC State Merit Award.
Impressed by his performance and character, the then-military administration offered him automatic employment in the Anambra State Civil Service—a rare gesture at the time.
Over the years, Mr. Achor rose through the ranks, serving as Director, Permanent Secretary, and now, Accountant General.
Governor Soludo’s appointment of Mr. Achor aligns with his administration’s bold reform agenda centered on merit, diversity, and institutional excellence.
In a similar vein, the governor recently appointed Mr. Adebayo Ojeyinka, a native of Osun State, as a Permanent Secretary—further underscoring his resolve to build a competent and inclusive bureaucracy.
According to the Governor’s Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, these appointments were not politically motivated but followed a rigorous and transparent selection process.
“The process included computer-based examinations, a merit-based screening exercise, and a final stage of personal interaction with Governor Soludo,” Aburime said.
“This personalized interaction enabled the Governor to deeply assess each candidate’s vision, alignment with the administration’s reform agenda, and their capacity to deliver results.”
Historically, appointments to senior civil service positions in Anambra were often determined by political patronage, ethnic considerations, or Governor’s discretion.
By breaking from this pattern, Governor Soludo is signaling a strategic shift in governance—one that institutionalizes fairness, professionalism, and national integration within the state’s administrative system.
This bold move to appoint non-indigenes to top-level roles not only challenges entrenched notions of exclusivity but also reaffirms Anambra’s openness, cosmopolitanism, and commitment to national unity.
“These appointments send a strong message: Anambra is open to all Nigerians. Talent will not be ignored because of ethnicity or origin. We are building a government anchored on merit, diversity, and service delivery,” Aburime reiterated.
In his reaction, Mr. Joachim Achor expressed profound gratitude to Governor Soludo and the people of Anambra State for what he described as a “deeply humbling” opportunity.
He praised the governor’s vision and leadership, which, he said, prioritizes capability and unity over ethno-regional sentiments.
“I owe a great debt of gratitude to Governor Soludo—a true nationalist and pan-Nigerian leader who values merit above state of origin,” Achor said.
He also commended the citizens of Anambra for their consistent support throughout his civil service career.
“I thank the people of Anambra for the warmth and camaraderie they have shown me. It has been an honor and privilege to serve this state. I give glory to God for the grace to reach this level,” he added.
Governor Soludo’s appointments are more than administrative decisions; they represent a bold political statement and a deliberate effort to redefine public service values and governance culture in Nigeria.
