Soludo Defies Tradition with Non-Indigene Appointments in Anambra
Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has challenged long-standing norms in state governance by appointing two non-indigenes to senior positions within the state’s civil service.
Joachim Achor, an Abia State native, was named the new Accountant-General of Anambra, while Adebayo Ojeyinka, from Osun State, has been appointed a Permanent Secretary. Both appointments, according to the state government, are based purely on merit and reflect a shift toward inclusive governance.
In a statement issued by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, the governor said the appointments were the product of a transparent, merit-based selection process that involved computer-based testing and direct engagement with the candidates.
“This is not just symbolic,” the statement read. “It is the outcome of a rigorous journey marked by professional excellence, integrity, and service.”
Achor’s connection to Anambra spans more than three decades. Originally from Abia, he came to the state for his studies and was later deployed to Anambra for his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in the early 1990s. During his service year, he received the NYSC State Merit Award and was immediately offered a place in the civil service by the then-military administration.
Since then, Achor has served the state with distinction rising from Director to Permanent Secretary, and now, Accountant-General.
Governor Soludo’s decision to prioritise competence over state of origin signals a strategic shift in public sector recruitment, not just in Anambra, but potentially across Nigeria.
“These appointments send a clear message that Anambra is open to all Nigerians who are ready to serve with excellence,” Aburime added.
The move comes at a time when issues of inclusion, ethnic bias, and fairness in public service continue to generate national discourse. While some states maintain strict indigene-based hiring policies, Soludo appears to be championing a more meritocratic model.
Reacting to his appointment, Achor expressed deep gratitude to the governor and the people of Anambra.
“This is a deeply humbling moment,” he said. “Governor Soludo is a nationalist who places merit above ethnic origin. I’m proud to have served this s
tate and its people.”
