Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
The Association of Non-Indigenes in Anambra State (ANIAS) has lauded Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo for appointing Mr. Joachin Chinedum Achor, an Abia State native, as the Acting Accountant General of Anambra State.
Mr. Achor’s appointment follows the exit of Dr. Chukwudi Okoli, who served in the position for nearly three years. The announcement was made on Thursday in a statement by the Governor’s Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime.
According to the statement, Mr. Achor’s elevation is a recognition of his exceptional service and dedication to the public sector in Anambra State. His steady rise from an entry-level civil servant to Director, Permanent Secretary, and now Acting Accountant General has been widely described as a testament to merit, hard-work, and professionalism.
Reacting to the development, ANIAS, in a statement signed by its President, Prince Chigozie Nweke, described the governor’s action as bold, inclusive, and worthy of emulation.
Prince Nweke praised Governor Soludo as a “pan-Nigerian” leader who places competence above ethnicity or political loyalty.
“The Association of Non-Indigenes in Anambra State, comprising Yoruba, Hausa, Igala, Ijaw, Igbo, and various other ethnic groups across Nigeria, is proud of Governor Soludo for embracing inclusive governance,” he said.
He noted that senior appointments in the civil service are often influenced by political patronage, ethnic considerations, or personal discretion. However, in this instance, the governor demonstrated a clear commitment to meritocracy by appointing the most qualified individual, regardless of state of origin.
“This appointment signifies a strategic shift toward institutionalizing fairness, professionalism, and national integration within Anambra’s administrative structure,” Nweke added.
He further described the governor’s move as unprecedented, saying it challenges the long-standing tradition of exclusivity in public appointments and positions Anambra as a progressive, inclusive, and cosmopolitan state.
While commending the governor’s leadership and inclusive governance style, Nweke expressed appreciation on behalf of the non-indigene community for the continued hospitality and support extended to them by both the government and people of Anambra State.
He also assured the governor of the unwavering support and contributions of non-indigenes in the development of the state.
“Your Excellency, the non-indigene community in Anambra State stands firmly behind you. We will continue to support your administration and contribute meaningfully to the growth and progress of the state as law-abiding citizens,” Nweke pledged.
