By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, on Monday inaugurated the newly promoted 18 new Permanent Secretaries into the State Civil Service.

Performing the function at the Government House, Awka, the Governor congratulated the appointees on their merit-based appointment and emphasized the importance of their roles.

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."

Soludo highlighted the diversity of the new appointees, including the representation from other states and a focus on gender equality, having appointed eight women among the eighteen

To the new Permanent Secretaries, he said, "Be mindful of their oath of allegiance. It is important for you to read and meditate on it, working conscientiously, combating corruption, and upholding justice."

While acknowledging the challenging economic times and his own decision to forego his salary, the Governor harped on the importance of the team's commitment to serving the people.

He added: "There may be limitations, "but we must persevere to deliver excellent service to the citizens of Anambra."

The Governor urged the new Permanent Secretaries to take ownership of their roles and work collaboratively with Commissioners and other levels of government to propel Anambra State forward.

Earlier in her introductory remarks, the Head of Service, Barr. Theodora Igwegbe, recalled that an examination was conducted for the appointment of permanent secretaries, among many stringent processes.

Barrister Igwegbe applauded the Governor for taking the time to personally interview and appoint the 18 Permanent Secretaries in the State.

On his part, the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Sylvia Ifemeje, quoted the Nigerian Constitution of 1999, which stipulates the Governor's power to appoint Permanent Secretaries in the Anambra State civil service.

The ceremony was graced by the presence of several high-ranking officials, including the Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, Secretary to the State Government Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, Principal Secretary, Barr JPC Anetoh, Chief of Protocol, Hon Chinedu Nwoye, among other members of Anambra State Executive Council.

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