By Our Correspondent
Anambra State governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo has appointed 18 new permanent secretaries for the state civil service, among who are indigenes of Abia and Osun states.
In the list released by the press secretary to the governor, Mr Christian Aburime, Joachin Achor is from Abia, while Adebayo Ojeyinka is from Osun State.
The other 16, who are from Anambra State include Engr. Michael Obiekwe,
Engr. Obi Augustine Okonkwo, Barr. Ndirika Onyekwelu, Dr. Obiageli Uchebo,
Mr. Victor C. Ezekwo, Mrs. Chinwe Achugbu, Mrs. Ifeoma Agbaizu, Barr. Nkiru Nwankwo, Dr (Engr.) Martin Agbili, Mr. Tochukwu Obodogha and Mr. Ifeatu Emodi.
Others are Dr. Nwabufo Nwankwo, Engr (Dr) Florence Idigo- Ibenta, Barr. Jacinta Nkeiruka Mokwe, Mr. Jerome Ilokwu and Mrs Chinyere Nwabachili.
Soludo, who said the appointments were based strictly on merit, explained that due process was followed, adding that it was in line with his reforms agenda to ensure transparency, accountability and optimal delivery of good governance to Anambra people.
He said: “The new appointments were subjected to stringent due process and merit, not minding extraneous factors such as state of origin, or any other affiliation.
“Specifically, a meticulous and transparent process was employed in the selection of prospective candidates for the esteemed positions.
“Recognizing the overriding importance of fairness and meritocracy, a comprehensive search method was crafted and implemented”.
According to him, the uncompromising process included computer -based examination.
He added: “Meritocracy was the basis, as candidates underwent rigorous aptitude tests. Criteria such as professional spread, local government area representation, and remaining years in service were carefully considered. This ensured the identification of high-performing individuals in different professions and senatorial zones who are poised to excel within the civil service.
“Acknowledging the dedication and contributions of candidates in their respective ministries, a performance-centric approach was integrated.
Those who exhibited exceptional commitment and hard work were duly recognized, aligning with the principle of rewarding merit and fostering a culture of excellence.
“As a final layer of scrutiny, each shortlisted candidate underwent a one-on-one interview with Mr Governor. This personalized interaction allowed for a deeper understanding of the candidates’ aspirations, vision, and alignment with the government’s objectives, ensuring a well-rounded evaluation.
“It is imperative to note that historically, the selection of Permanent Secretaries solely rested with the prerogative of Mr Governor. However, this time, a deliberate shift towards a transparent search process was initiated.
“This change aimed to uphold principles of fairness, equal opportunity, and the identification of the most qualified candidates”.
Before the appointment of the new permanent secretaries, the State had only six substantive permanent secretaries overseeing 23 MDAs because of retirements over a period of time. Some of the permanent secretaries were overseeing three MDAs and others four.
273 candidates applied for the post permanent secretaries in the state when it was advertised and over seventy of the number came from the private sector.
