Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo has sworn in 18 new permanent secretaries in the state civil service.

The new permanent secretaries include indigenes of Abia and Osun states, Mr Adebayo Ojeyinka and Mr Joachin Achor, respectively.

Performing the function at the Anambra State Government House, Awka, the governor congratulated the appointees, saying the appointments were based on merit.

He also urged them to add value to his government and ensure transparency in their dealings.

He said: “This is a unique appointment process. For the first time in the state, permanent secretaries were chosen through rigorous examinations and interviews, ensuring the most qualified candidates were selected.

“There may be limitations, but we must persevere to deliver excellent service to the citizens of Anambra.”

Soludo highlighted the diversity of the new appointees, including representation from other states and his focus on gender equality.

The governor had appointed eight women, out of the 18 new permanent secretaries sworn in.

Soludo asked the new permanent secretaries to be mindful of their oath of allegiance and stressed the importance of reading and meditating on it.

He acknowledged the challenging economic times and his own decision to forego salary, emphasizing the team’s commitment to serving the people.

In the same vein, he urged the new permanent secretaries to take ownership of their roles and work collaboratively with commissioners and other officials of government to propel Anambra State forward.