In a historic break from convention, Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has appointed Mr. Joachim Achor, an indigene of Abia State, as the Accountant General of Anambra State.

 

The appointment marks a significant departure from the traditional practice of reserving top government positions for state indigenes, signaling a bold shift toward meritocracy and inclusivity in public service.

 

Mr. Achor’s connection with Anambra State began as a young student in search of academic opportunity. He studied at Federal Polytechnic, Oko, and upon graduation, was posted to Anambra for the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). During his service year, he distinguished himself as the best corps member, earning the prestigious NYSC State Merit Award.

 

Recognizing his excellence and integrity, the then-military administration offered him automatic employment in the Anambra State Civil Service—a rare privilege at the time. Over the decades, Achor rose steadily through the ranks, serving as Director, Permanent Secretary, and now, Accountant General of the state.

 

Governor Soludo’s Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, described Achor’s elevation as “symbolic,” noting it as the culmination of a journey defined by personal resilience, professional excellence, and unwavering dedication to service.

 

He emphasized that the appointment, along with that of Mr. Adebayo Ojeyinka from Osun State as a Permanent Secretary, reflects the governor’s commitment to a diverse, competent, and forward-thinking civil service.

 

“These appointments were not politically motivated,” Aburime noted. “They were the outcome of a rigorous and transparent selection process that included computer-based tests, merit-based screenings, and a final stage of personal interaction with Governor Soludo.”

 

 

 

He further added that these appointments challenge the entrenched norms of political patronage and ethnic exclusivity, representing a strategic shift towards professionalism, fairness, and national integration within the state’s administrative structure.

 

“This unprecedented move sends a clear message that Anambra is open to all Nigerians who are ready to serve with excellence,” Aburime stated.

“Talent will not be overlooked because of ethnicity or state of origin. We are building a government anchored on merit, diversity, and results.”

 

 

 

In his reaction, Mr. Joachim Achor expressed deep gratitude to Governor Soludo and the people of Anambra for what he described as a “deeply humbling” opportunity.

 

“I owe a great debt of gratitude to Governor Soludo—a true nationalist and pan-Nigerian leader who values merit over ethnic or regional identity,” he said.

“I also thank the people of Anambra for the warmth and support I’ve received over the years. It has been an honor to serve this great state. I give all glory to God.”

 

 

 

The appointment of Mr. Achor is being widely praised as a progressive milestone in Nigeria’s civil service landscape and a model for inclusive governance across the country.