Governor Charles Soludo has appointed Joachim Achor as the new accountant-general.

The appointment was announced in a statement on Thursday in Awka by the governor’s press secretary, Christian Aburime.

According to the statement, Mr Achor emerged from a rigorous selection process.

Mr Achor, who hails from Abia, first came to Anambra as a student and later completed his National Youth Service Corps in the state, where he received the state merit award for being the best corps member.

Impressed by his outstanding performance, the then military administration offered him automatic employment in Anambra’s civil service.

Over the years, Mr Achor rose through the ranks, serving as director and later as permanent secretary before his recent appointment as the accountant-general.

The statement emphasised that the appointment was not politically motivated, but rather the result of a transparent and merit-based selection process.

It noted that the process included computer-based tests, a rigorous screening exercise, and a final stage involving personal interaction with the governor.

“Historically, appointments to senior civil service positions in Anambra were often subject to political patronage, ethnic considerations, or gubernatorial discretion. This appointment seeks to institutionalise fairness, professionalism, and national integration within the state’s administrative architecture.

“The appointment of non-indigenes to such high-level roles reaffirms Anambra’s openness, progressivism, and cosmopolitan spirit,” it said.

According to the statement, “It sends a clear political message that Anambra belongs to all Nigerians who are willing to serve with excellence.

“We are building a government anchored on merit, diversity, and service delivery,“ it said.

Mr Soludo congratulated Mr Achor on his appointment and urged him to discharge his duties in the service of the state with integrity, professionalism and dedication. 

(NAN)