Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has appointed Joachim Achor, an indigene of Abia State, as the Accountant General of Anambra State.
The appointment, which is considered a landmark decision and a radical departure from tradition, was announced in a statement issued on Thursday by the Governor’s Press Secretary, Christian Aburime.
Aburime said the appointment underscores the Soludo administration’s commitment to merit-based appointments and national integration, defying the longstanding norm of restricting top government roles to state indigenes.
Naijaonpoint understands that Achor’s journey in Anambra began decades ago when he arrived as a student in pursuit of academic opportunities.
After graduating from the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, he was posted to Anambra for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), where he distinguished himself as the state’s best corps member, earning the prestigious NYSC State Merit Award.
Moved by his performance, the then-military administration offered him automatic employment in the Anambra State Civil Service, a rare feat at the time.
Since then, Achor has risen through the ranks, serving as Director, Permanent Secretary, and now Accountant General.
Aburime described Achor’s appointment as the culmination of “a remarkable journey marked by personal resilience, professional excellence, and unwavering dedication to public service.”
He emphasised that the decision was not politically motivated but rather the outcome of a transparent, merit-based selection process that involved a computer-based test, rigorous screening, and a final interview with Governor Soludo himself.
“This personalized interaction allowed the governor to deeply assess each candidate’s vision, alignment with the administration’s reform agenda, and the capacity to deliver on public service excellence,” Aburime said.
He noted that the process represents a clear shift away from the past, where top civil service appointments were often made based on political patronage, ethnic bias, or executive discretion.
Naijaonpoint reports that the Governor had earlier appointed Adebayo Ojeyinka, an Osun State indigene, as a Permanent Secretary, further reinforcing his resolve to build a diverse and competence-driven public service.
“These appointments are sending a strong message: Anambra is open to all Nigerians. Talent will not be ignored because of ethnicity or origin,” Aburime stated.
He added that the move “challenges entrenched notions of state exclusivity and reaffirms Anambra’s openness, progressivism, and cosmopolitan spirit.”
Reacting to his appointment, Achor expressed deep appreciation to Governor Soludo and the people of Anambra State, describing the opportunity as deeply humbling.
“I owe a great debt of gratitude to Governor Soludo, a true nationalist and pan-Nigerian leader who values merit above state of origin,” he said.
He also praised the warmth and acceptance he has received from the people of Anambra over the years.
“It has been an honour and privilege to serve this state. I give glory to God for the grace to reach this level,” Achor added.