Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has appointed Mr. Joachim Achor, an indigene of Abia State, as the Accountant General of Anambra State, breaking away from the long-standing tradition of reserving top government roles exclusively for indigenes.
Achor’s journey in Anambra began as a student at the Federal Polytechnic, Oko. After graduating, he was posted to the state for his mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), where he emerged as the best corps member and earned the NYSC State Merit Award.
Impressed by his outstanding service, the then-military government offered him immediate employment in the state civil service. Since then, Achor has climbed the ranks—serving as Director, then Permanent Secretary, and now ascending to the highest financial position in the state.
Governor Soludo’s move follows a similar appointment earlier this year, when he named Mr. Adebayo Ojeyinka from Osun State as a Permanent Secretary. Both decisions reflect his administration’s commitment to inclusivity, professionalism, and a merit-driven public service.
Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Christian Aburime, described Achor’s elevation as symbolic of the Soludo-led administration’s reformist agenda.
“Governor Soludo’s appointment of Mr. Achor aligns with his administration’s bold reform agenda centered on meritocracy, inclusivity, and institutional integrity.
“These appointments were not politically motivated, but rather the outcome of a rigorous, transparent selection process.
“The process included computer-based examinations, a merit-based screening exercise, and a final stage of personal interaction with Governor Soludo.
“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 stated.
He noted that such appointments challenge the outdated model of political patronage and ethnic bias in civil service recruitment and promotion.
“This unprecedented move to appoint non-indigenes to such high-level roles not only challenges entrenched notions of state exclusivity, but also reaffirms Anambra’s openness, progressivism, and cosmopolitan spirit.
“It sends a clear political message that Anambra belongs to all Nigerians who are willing to serve with excellence.
“These appointments send a strong message: Anambra is open to all Nigerians. Talent will not be ignored because of ethnicity or origin. We are building a government anchored on merit, diversity, and service delivery.”
Reacting to his appointment, Achor expressed deep appreciation to Governor Soludo and the people of Anambra State.
“I owe a great debt of gratitude to Governor Soludo, a true nationalist and pan-Nigerian leader who values merit above state of origin.
“I thank the people of Anambra for the warmth and camaraderie they have shown me. It has been an honor and privilege to serve this state. I give glory to God for the grace to reach this level,” he said.
